The Dengue NS1 Antigen ELISA test identifies the non-structural protein 1 (NS1) of the dengue virus in blood. It focuses on specific antigens, which are foreign materials entering the body. This detection is effective during the acute phase, or the initial 7 days of dengue fever, promoting early diagnosis and medical care.

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness caused by one of four serotypes of the dengue virus, which belongs to the genus Flavivirus. When an infected mosquito bites, the virus enters the bloodstream and begins to replicate. This leads to the characteristic symptoms of dengue fever which are triggered by the virus and the immune system response. The Dengue NS1 test can detect the virus in blood within the first 7 days of symptom onset. Studies demonstrate that NS1 antigen levels in the blood are associated with the severity of the disease, with elevated levels seen in severe cases. Thus, the Dengue Antigen test provides crucial diagnostic information for dengue infections.

If you are in Noida and have dengue fever symptoms, a Dengue Antigen test can be crucial. Book your Dengue Antigen test in Noida today to ascertain your dengue status if you suspect exposure to the virus.

Consider the following before a Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen test:

Prerequisites

No fasting is necessary for the Dengue NS1 test.

Best Time to Get Tested

The Dengue Antigen test can be done at any time during the day.

Eligibility for Dengue NS1 ELISA Test

This test is suitable if you have been in a dengue-affected region and are experiencing symptoms like high fever, rash, muscle and joint pain, pain behind the eyes, nausea, or vomiting.

Cautions Before Taking Dengue NS1 ELISA Test

No special measures are needed before undergoing the Dengue NS1 test.

If you have been in a dengue-endemic area and have begun to display symptoms of dengue fever, it is recommended to take a Dengue NS1 test. Symptoms typically appear within 4 to 10 days after being bitten by a mosquito and continue for 3 to 7 days. These symptoms generally include a sudden fever that can go up to 104°F or above, accompanied by any of the following:

• Rash

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Headache

• Severe pain behind the eyes

• Muscle, bone, or joint pain

Without timely treatment, some individuals may develop dengue haemorrhagic fever, a severe condition that results in nosebleeds, vomiting blood, blood in stools, bleeding gums, abdominal pain, frequent vomiting, and extreme fatigue. The risk of severe dengue highlights the importance of early detection and treatment.

The NS1 antigen is detectable in the blood during the acute phase, so the NS1 test is performed within the first 7 days of symptoms. After this period, the test may become less sensitive.

Thus, the Dengue Antigen test helps doctors in the early detection of dengue, confirming the infection, and ruling out other similar illnesses.

The table below highlights how to interpret the findings of a Dengue NS1 ELISA test:

Note that interference might occur if the blood sample contains antibodies against test components. For example, in dengue virus testing, cross-reactivity with other Flaviviruses or non-infectious conditions can lead to false positives or misinterpretation. Thus, it is essential to consider the patient's clinical history for accurate diagnosis. Utilising both NS1 detection and the IgM Antibody test can improve the accuracy of diagnosing dengue infection. The dengue NS1 ELISA is the preferred test within the first 7 days of symptoms. After 7-10 days, IgG and IgM antibody tests are recommended.