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Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR

Also known as Dengue and Chikungunya Real-Time PCR
3469
You need to provide
Blood
This test is for
Male, Female
Test Preparation
  1. No special preparation is required.

Understanding Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR


What is Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR?

The Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test is used to detect the presence of the viruses responsible for dengue and chikungunya. This test identifies viral RNA in blood samples, enabling accurate diagnosis during the early stages of infection. It helps ensure timely treatment and reduce the risk of severe complications. 

The Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test helps in the early detection of two widely prevalent viral infections: dengue and chikungunya. These infections are caused by the Aedes mosquito. Both dengue and chikungunya share similar symptoms, making an accurate diagnosis imperative for appropriate treatment. 

The Dengue and Chikungunya RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) test specifically identifies the RNA of the dengue virus and the chikungunya virus in the blood during the acute phase of the illness. This method allows for a definitive diagnosis in the first few days of infection, when other tests, such as serology, may yield false negatives. Timely identification through Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR is critical, as it facilitates prompt medical intervention, reducing the risk of severe dengue complications, such as hemorrhagic fever, and managing debilitating symptoms associated with chikungunya.

No special preparation is required for the Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR; eat and drink as per the daily routine. Also, the individual must inform the doctor about any medications that they take, as it may affect the test results. 

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between different labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to the doctor about the specific test results. The results will help them determine the medical condition and formulate an overall treatment plan. 

What is Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR used for?

The Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test is done: 

  • For the early detection of dengue and chikungunya infections.
  • To differentiate between these two viral infections.
  • When the patient is experiencing symptoms indicative of dengue or chikungunya viral infections.
  • If the individual has traveled to or lives in regions with known outbreaks of dengue or chikungunya. 

What does Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR measure?

The Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test is tailored to confirm and differentiate between two mosquito-borne diseases: dengue and chikungunya. This test specifically measures the viral RNA present in the blood after exposure to the dengue and chikungunya viruses. The detection of dengue virus RNA indicates an active dengue infection, allowing for immediate clinical management. Similarly, the identification of chikungunya virus RNA confirms the presence of the chikungunya virus, guiding symptom management and supportive care.

Together, these tests are indispensable in regions where both dengue and chikungunya are endemic, enabling doctors to swiftly and accurately diagnose these illnesses and implement appropriate treatment strategies.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR


Frequently Asked Questions about Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR

Q. What is the Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test?

The Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test is a blood test that detects the RNA of the dengue and chikungunya viruses. It is primarily used for early diagnosis of these two viral infections.

Q. Why is the Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test important?

Early detection of dengue and chikungunya is crucial to manage symptoms effectively and prevent severe complications. The Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test allows for accurate diagnosis in the initial days of infection.

Q. How is the Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR performed?

A phlebotomist (a trained professional to perform blood draws) will clean your skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe and take a blood sample from your vein using a needle. The blood sample will safely be stored and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Q. Are there any risks associated with the Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR?

No, the Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test is generally safe with minimal risks. However, you may feel slight discomfort during blood sample collection, but chances of serious complications are extremely rare.

Q. Do I need to prepare for the test?

No special preparation is required. You can eat and drink normally before the test, but it’s important to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.

Q. When should I get tested for the Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test?

You should consider getting tested if you have symptoms such as high fever, severe joint pain, rash, or fatigue, especially if you’ve traveled to areas with reported outbreaks of dengue or chikungunya.

Q. What do the results mean?

A positive result indicates an active infection with either the dengue or chikungunya virus, while a negative result suggests that the virus is not present in your blood. Your doctor will help interpret the results and recommend the next steps.

Q. Can I have both dengue and chikungunya at the same time?

Yes, it is possible to be infected with both viruses simultaneously, making it essential for this test to differentiate between the two infections.

Q. What happens if my test is negative but I still have symptoms?

If you still exhibit symptoms despite a negative test, further evaluation may be necessary. Your doctor may recommend additional testing or monitoring based on your clinical symptoms.

Q. What are the main similarities between dengue and chikungunya?

Both dengue and chikungunya are viral infections transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Since they share common symptoms such as high fever, joint pain, headache, and fatigue, distinguishing between them is difficult without testing.

Q. How do dengue and chikungunya differ in terms of symptoms?

While both diseases can cause fever and fatigue, dengue is more likely to cause severe symptoms like bleeding, abdominal pain, and hemorrhagic fever in some cases. Chikungunya, on the other hand, is characterized by intense joint pain, which can persist for weeks or months.

Q. What viruses cause dengue and chikungunya?

Dengue is caused by the dengue virus, which has four serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, DEN-4). Chikungunya is caused by the chikungunya virus, which is distinct from the dengue virus.

Q. Are there any differences in the incubation period?

Yes, the incubation period for dengue is typically 3 to 10 days after a mosquito bite, while for chikungunya, it is generally 1 to 12 days. This means symptoms may appear sooner for chikungunya.

Q. Can both dengue and chikungunya infections occur at the same time?

Yes, the same mosquito species can transmit both dengue and chikungunya, making simultaneous infection possible.

Q. How can I prevent dengue and chikungunya?

Preventive measures are similar for both infections, including eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed, using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves, and using mosquito nets.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.
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Dengue and Chikungunya RT PCR test price for other cities


Price inPuneRs. 3469
Price inNagpurRs. 3469
Price inMumbaiRs. 3469
Price inHyderabadRs. 3469
Price inLucknowRs. 4280
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Our phlebotomists follow strict safety protocols to collect samples at home on time.
Sample received at lab
Your sample is bought to our laboratory for testing by our qualified experts.
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Reports are sent to your email. A free doctor follow up is provided to understand the report better.

References

  1. Chikungunya [Internet]. WHO; 08 Dec. 2022 [Accessed 10 Oct. 2024]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chikungunya External Link
  2. Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Treatment [Internet]. CDC; 06 Dec. 2024 [Accessed 10 Oct. 2024]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/symptoms-diagnosis-treatment/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/symptoms/index.html External Link
  3. Clinical Testing and Diagnosis for Chikungunya Virus Disease [Internet]. CDC; 15 May. 2024 [Accessed 10 Oct. 2024]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/hcp/diagnosis-testing/index.html External Link
  4. Ojeda Rodriguez JA, Haftel A, Walker, III JR. Chikungunya Fever. [Updated 2023 Jun 26]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534224/ External Link
  5. Vu DM, Jungkind D, Angelle Desiree LaBeaud. Chikungunya Virus. Clin Lab Med. 2017 Jun;37(2):371-382. [Accessed 10 Oct. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5469677/ External Link
  6. Johnson BW, Russell BJ, Goodman CH. Laboratory Diagnosis of Chikungunya Virus Infections and Commercial Sources for Diagnostic Assays. J Infect Dis. 2016 Dec 15;214(suppl 5):S471-S474. [Accessed 10 Oct. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5657184/ External Link
  7. Dengue and severe dengue [Internet]. WHO; 23 Apr. 2024 [Accessed 10 Oct. 2024]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengueExternal Link
  8. Dengue: Guidelines for Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention and Control: New Edition. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2009. 4, LABORATORY DIAGNOSIS AND DIAGNOSTIC TESTS. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK143156/ External Link
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