DENGUE IgG IgM antibody test
 
Understanding Your Dengue IgG and IgM Antibody Test
What It Is: The Dengue IgG and IgM antibody test is a blood test used to diagnose dengue fever, a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes. It helps identify the presence of antibodies that your body produces in response to the dengue virus.
Why It's Done:
Diagnosing Dengue: This test is crucial for diagnosing dengue, especially in the early stages of the illness.
Understanding the Stage of Infection: It helps determine if the infection is recent or occurred in the past.
Guiding Treatment: Knowing the stage of the infection allows healthcare providers to choose the best treatment plan.
Components of the Test:
Dengue IgM Antibody Test:
When to Test: Recommended during the first 7 days of illness.
What It Measures: IgM levels become positive 4–5 days after symptoms start and remain positive for about 12 weeks, sometimes longer.
What It Indicates: A positive IgM test indicates a recent dengue infection. However, results should be interpreted carefully due to potential cross-reactivity with other flaviviruses (viruses similar to dengue).
Dengue IgG Antibody Test:
What It Measures: IgG antibodies, which develop later in the infection and can remain in your body for years.
What It Indicates: A positive IgG test suggests a past dengue infection.
How the Test Works:
Preparation: No special preparation is needed, but it's always best to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Sample Collection: A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of your blood, usually from a vein in your arm.
Laboratory Analysis: The blood sample is sent to a lab where the levels of IgG and IgM antibodies are measured.
Interpreting the Results:
Positive IgM: Indicates a recent or active dengue infection.
Positive IgG: Suggests a past dengue infection.
Cross-Reactivity: Be aware that results may sometimes show cross-reactivity with other flaviviruses, so further tests might be needed for accurate diagnosis.
Why Your Doctor Might Order This Test:
Early Diagnosis: To confirm dengue in the early stages when symptoms appear.
Understanding Infection Stage: To differentiate between recent and past infections.
Guiding Treatment: To help healthcare providers tailor the best treatment plan for you based on the stage of the infection.
Symptoms of Dengue:
High fever
Severe headache
Pain behind the eyes
Joint and muscle pain
Fatigue
Nausea
Skin rash