Dengue Fever Antibodies (IgG, IgM) ELISA
Dengue Fever Antibodies (IgG, IgM) ELISA
The dengue fever IgG and IgM antibodies test effectively detects the presence of IgG and IgM antibodies. This test is commonly used as a screening tool to evaluate past or current dengue virus infections. Dengue is a viral infection transmitted to humans by the bite of an Aedes mosquito carrying the virus.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or ELISA is an immunoassay method for qualitative detection of antibodies to dengue. IgG and IgM antibodies are generated by the body in response to dengue virus infection. IgM antibodies are typically detectable 4-5 days after symptom onset and remain detectable for approximately 12 weeks. On the other hand, IgG antibodies usually appear around the 7th day of fever during the primary infection and can remain for an extended period, possibly years.
Thus, getting this test done is recommended for early detection of dengue infection and for preventing fatal conditions like dengue hemorrhagic fever, dengue shock syndrome, reduced blood cell counts, etc.
Symptoms of dengue
High fever
Headache
Joint and muscle pain
Nausea and vomiting
Skin rash
Who should get tested?
The dengue fever antibodies (IgG, IgM) ELISA test is recommended in the following cases
Showing symptoms of dengue disease
Recent travel to a tropical or sub-tropical country
Preparation for the test
No special preparation is required for the dengue fever antibodies (IgG, IgM) ELISA test.
Interpretation of results
The interpretation of results for dengue fever antibodies (IgG, IgM) ELISA test is as follows:
|
Value of IgG antibody |
Interpretation |
Remarks |
|
<1.8 |
Negative |
No IgG antibody detected |
|
1.8-2.2 |
Equivocal |
Retesting advised |
|
>2.2 |
Positive |
IgG antibody detected |
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|
Value of IgM antibody |
Interpretation |
Remarks |
|
<0.9 |
Negative |
No IgM antibody detected. Repeat the test after 7-14 days if an infection is suspected |
|
0.9-1.1 |
Equivocal |
Retesting advised |
|
>1.1 |
Positive |
IgM antibody detected. Primary/secondary dengue infection is suggested |
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Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
·        A positive test result for dengue IgG antibodies but not IgM antibodies is usually caused due to an infection in the past.
·        A recent infection is most likely the case if the dengue IgG antibody test titre increases by fourfold or more between the initial sample and one taken two to four weeks later.
·        IgG and IgM antibody positive tests indicate current dengue virus infection.
·        A negative IgG test result indicates no dengue infection.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the dengue fever antibodies (IgG, IgM) ELISA test?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm using a fine needle. This procedure typically takes no longer than five minutes.
What are the risks involved in the dengue fever antibodies (IgG, IgM) ELISA test?
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight pain or tenderness around the site where the needle went in. Rarely, the site can become infected.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the results of the dengue fever antibodies (IgG, IgM) ELISA test?
The dengue fever antibodies (IgG, IgM) ELISA test result is usually available within 24 hours after the collection of the test sample. This duration may vary depending on the diagnostic clinic.
How can dengue fever be prevented?
Safeguarding one from mosquito bites is the primary approach to prevent dengue fever. Using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and removing stagnant water sources that serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes are essential preventive measures.
Is it possible to contract dengue fever more than once?
Yes. It is possible to contract dengue fever multiple times due to the existence of four distinct serotypes of the dengue virus. Subsequent infections tend to be more severe compared to the first occurrence.
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