Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA
Understanding Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA
What is Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA?
A Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA test helps detect the presence of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies related to Dengue virus exposure. This blood test helps determine whether an individual has been previously infected with Dengue and has developed an immune response against the virus.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause a range of symptoms, from mild fever to severe manifestations like Dengue Hemorrhagic fever (DHF).
When an individual contacts Dengue, their immune system produces specific antibodies, including IgG, as a defense mechanism against the virus, and the presence of IgG antibodies in the blood indicates a past infection against Dengue. This test helps understand the immune status of an individual, helping in the diagnosis of Dengue and providing insights into the history of exposure. During the acute phase of this infection, Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies are predominantly produced, while IgG antibodies appear during the later phase of the infection when an individual recovers and returns to previous health (convalescent phase) and persists for an extended period. A Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA test, therefore, is not used for early diagnosis of Dengue infection but helps to confirm past exposure.
The choice to undergo a Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA test is based on your medical history, travel plans, and potential risk factors. However, consider a Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA test if you have experienced symptoms consistent with Dengue and want to confirm a previous infection. If you have traveled to Dengue-endemic areas, the test can help determine if you have been exposed to the virus, even if you don’t exhibit symptoms during your travel. Additionally, if you are residing in or traveling to areas with a high prevalence of Dengue, a Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA test may be beneficial. Keep in mind that recovering from one type of Dengue virus gives lifelong protection against that specific strain. However, you can still get infected by other types, which may be more severe.
No special preparation is required to get tested with a Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA test. However, inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as certain medications may influence the test results.
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.
What is Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA used for?
A Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA test is done:
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To confirm a previous Dengue infection if you have experienced related symptoms.
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To determine the exposure to the Dengue virus after traveling to endemic areas.
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To evaluate the risk of subsequent Dengue infection, considering multiple virus strains and potential severity.
What does Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA measure?
A Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA test measures the presence of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies specific to Dengue virus in the blood. These antibodies typically appear in the blood a few weeks after the onset of dengue symptoms or exposure to the virus. However, this can vary, but generally IgG antibodies become detectable during the recovery phase of the infection.
IgG antibodies indicate a past exposure or infection with the Dengue virus and provide information about the individual’s immune response to the virus.a
Interpreting Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA 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