The Dengue test is a simple blood test designed to detect the presence of the dengue virus by analysing a blood sample. This test is also referred to as the Dengue Fever Profile (ELISA) test. Testing for dengue is recommended for those individuals who reside in areas with prevalent dengue infection or have a recent travel history to dengue endemic regions. The Dengue test panel involves various Dengue tests performed using the ELISA method to diagnose the infection accurately.

A comprehensive Dengue Profile test usually includes a combination of these tests to provide a thorough understanding of the infection. The specific tests performed include:

• Dengue NS1 Test : Detects the NS1 protein, indicating an active dengue infection.

• Dengue IgG Test : Measures IgG antibodies to assess a past or ongoing infection.

• Dengue IgM Test : Measures IgM antibodies to confirm a current infection.

For individuals seeking Dengue test in Gurgaon, a range of blood tests can be performed for early detection of the infection. This allows effective management as well as helps prevent severe complications associated with dengue.

When preparing for a Dengue Blood test , kindly note the following points:

Prerequisites

There are no specific prerequisites, such as fasting, for a Dengue Blood test.

Best Time to Get Tested

It is recommended to schedule the test as soon as symptoms appear, generally within the first 5 days of fever onset. The NS1 antigen can be detected in the initial stages of infection (within 7 days), whereas the antibodies IgG and IgM can be detected in the later stages of infection (Approximately 10 days after the onset of symptoms).

Who Should Get Tested

The Dengue Blood test is recommended for individuals with symptoms of dengue fever such as rashes, joint and muscle pain, high fever, pain behind the eyes, severe headache, and bleeding through the nose and gums.

Cautions Before Getting Tested

Testing for dengue does not require specific precautions.

Undergoing a Dengue test is imperative for several reasons. Here are some reasons why you should get tested:

Diagnosis of Symptoms: Dengue tests detect active infection in individuals experiencing symptoms such as high fever, rash, joint and muscle pain, severe headache, bleeding, or pain behind the eyes.

Travel History and Recent Exposure: If you have recently travelled to an area where dengue is prevalent, testing is recommended to enable early diagnosis.

Early Detection of Dengue: Various tests included in the Dengue testing panel play a crucial role in early disease detection, facilitating prompt treatment initiation and effective symptom management. They also help distinguish dengue from other viral infections.

Prevention of Severe Complications: Early dengue testing is essential to start timely treatment and prevent severe complications like haemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome.

Management of Outbreaks: Identifying and reporting dengue cases is vital for public health efforts, enabling the monitoring of outbreaks and implementation of necessary control measures to curb disease spread.

Dengue tests at home are safe and convenient for those who are unable to visit a testing facility.

The outcomes of the Dengue test can be evaluated as quantitative values. A detailed interpretation of the Dengue Profile test results is given below:

*Primary dengue infection indicates dengue infection for the first time in the individual’s life. **Secondary dengue infection indicates that the patient has had dengue infection in the past and may have dengue again.

Detection of the NS1 antigen indicates an ongoing dengue infection, whereas the presence of IgM antibodies points to recent exposure. Detection of IgG antibodies indicates previous infection, guiding healthcare professionals in selecting optimal treatment options and managing patient care to promote speedy recuperation.