Dengue Antibody, IgM
Understanding Dengue Antibody, IgM
What is Dengue Antibody, IgM?
A Dengue Antibody, IgM test helps to detect the presence of dengue-specific Immunoglobulin M (IgM) produced by the body in response to dengue virus. It helps in the early detection of dengue fever, often within the first few days of symptoms.
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted through mosquito bites, primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito carrying the dengue virus. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dengue fever is a significant health concern widespread in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The symptoms of dengue fever can vary widely, ranging from mild-flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and body ache to more severe manifestations like bleeding, abdominal pain, or Dengue Hemorrhagic fever (DHF) which is life-threatening if not treated promptly.
A Dengue Antibody, IgM test is most effective when conducted during the acute phase of infection i.e. starting 4-5 days after onset of symptoms and is reliably detectable for approximately 12 weeks, offering a crucial time window to identify the presence of dengue-specific IgM antibodies in the blood. While there is no specific antiviral treatment available, timely diagnosis not only helps confirm the infection but allows for prompt treatment to reduce the risk of complications associated with dengue fever.
A Dengue Antibody, IgM test plays an important role in the diagnostic process of dengue fever. No special preparations are required to get tested with a Dengue Antibody, IgM test. Lab test results may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation, therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for proper understanding of the test results. Discuss your symptoms and medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings and tailor a treatment plan.
Understanding the spectrum of dengue fever is essential. Recovery from one serotype of the dengue virus grants lifelong immunity against that specific strain. However, it is noteworthy that you remain susceptible to other types of dengue viruses. Another infection, especially with a different serotype, can be more severe and dangerous. Therefore, taking every possible precaution to prevent subsequent attacks of dengue virus should be a priority in safeguarding your health.
What is Dengue Antibody, IgM used for?
A Dengue Antibody, IgM test is done:
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When you experience symptoms such as fever, body pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, rash, and pain behind the eyes suggestive of dengue fever.
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To detect dengue virus at an early stage.
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In case of recent travel history to dengue endemic areas.
What does Dengue Antibody, IgM measure?
A Dengue Antibody, IgM test measures the presence of Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies in the blood. It specifically detects the dengue-specific IgM antibodies produced by the body in response to the dengue virus. When a dengue infection occurs, IgM antibodies are the first line of defense. It helps identify recent dengue virus infection as the production of IgM antibodies typically occurs within the first few days to a couple of weeks after the onset of the symptoms.
Interpreting Dengue Antibody, IgM results
Interpretations
- If the dengue IgG antibody test is positive, but the IgM is low or negative, it usually indicates that a person had an infection sometime in the past
- If the dengue IgG antibody test titre increase fourfold or greater between an initial sample and one taken 2 to 4 weeks later, then it is likely that a person has had a recent infection
- Positive IgG and IgM antibody tests indicate current infection with dengue virus
- Negative tests for IgM and/or IgG usually mean that the person tested does not have a dengue infection
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dengue Antibody, IgM
Frequently Asked Questions about Dengue Antibody, IgM
Q. Why is the Dengue Antibody, IgM test done?
Q. Why do I need a Dengue Antibody, IgM test?
Q. What does a positive Dengue Antibody, IgM test indicate?
Q. What are the most common symptoms of dengue fever?
Q. Is it possible to have dengue without showing any noticeable symptoms?
Q. How many days does dengue fever last?
Q. What is dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF)?
Q. How many platelets are normal in dengue?
Q. How can I prevent dengue infection?
Q. Is dengue fever contagious?
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References
- Dengue and severe dengue [Internet]. WHO; 17 Mar. 2023 [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue
- Dengue and severe dengue [Internet]. WHO; 17 Mar. 2023 [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.who.int/health-topics/dengue-and-severe-dengue#tab=tab_3
- Dengue during pregnancy [Internet]. CDC; 31 Oct. 2019 [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/transmission/pregnancy.html
- Dengue [Internet]. CDC; 15 Aug 2023 [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/index.html
- Schaefer TJ, Panda PK, Wolford RW. Dengue Fever [Internet]. Treasure Island, Florida: StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan. [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430732/
- Kularatne SA, Dalugama C. Dengue infection: Global importance, immunopathology and management. Clin Med (Lond). 2022 Jan;22(1):9-13. [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8813012/
- Dengue Virus Antigen Detection [Internet]. CDC; 03 May 2019 [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/healthcare-providers/testing/antigen-detection.html
- Avoid Dengue By Preventing Mosquito Bites [Internet]. CDC; 06 Mar. 2023 [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/ncezid/dvbd/media/avoid-dengue.html#:~:text=Use%20insect%20repellent%2C%20wear%20long,the%20bites%20of%20infected%20mosquitoes
- Luvira V, Thawornkuno C, Lawpoolsri S, Thippornchai N, Duangdee C, Ngamprasertchai T, Leaungwutiwong P. Diagnostic Performance of Dengue NS1 and Antibodies by Serum Concentration Technique. Trop Med Infect Dis. 2023 Feb 14;8(2):117. [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9963119/
- Wang SM, Sekaran SD. Early diagnosis of Dengue infection using a commercial Dengue Duo rapid test kit for the detection of NS1, IGM, and IGG. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2010 Sep;83(3):690-5. [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2929071/
- Nagar PK, Savargaonkar D, Anvikar AR. Detection of Dengue Virus-Specific IgM and IgG Antibodies through Peptide Sequences of Envelope and NS1 Proteins for Serological Identification. J Immunol Res. 2020 Aug 4;2020:1820325. [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7424411/
- Serologic Tests for Dengue Virus [Internet]. CDC; 13 June 2019 [Accessed 30 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/healthcare-providers/testing/serologic-tests.html
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