Know More About This Test

The Dengue IgG & IgM test is a blood investigation used to detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to Dengue virus infection. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral illness that can range from mild fever to severe, life-threatening conditions such as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever and Dengue Shock Syndrome.

IgM antibodies usually appear first during the acute phase of infection, while IgG antibodies develop later and may remain detectable for life, indicating past exposure.

Why Is This Test Recommended?

This test is recommended for individuals presenting with high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, or bleeding manifestations, especially in dengue-endemic regions. It is also advised when platelet counts are low or during dengue outbreaks.

What Do the Results Indicate?

• A positive IgM result suggests a recent or active dengue infection.

• A positive IgG result indicates past exposure or secondary infection.

• Detection of both antibodies may suggest a current secondary dengue infection, which carries a higher risk of complications.

How Is the Test Performed and Prepared For?

A blood sample is collected. No fasting is required. Timing of the test in relation to symptom onset is important for accurate interpretation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can this test detect early dengue? No, IgM antibodies typically appear 3-5 days after the onset of symptoms, so the test may not detect very early infections; NS1 antigen testing is often used for immediate detection during the first few days.

• Does IgG mean active infection? No, a positive IgG usually indicates past exposure or immunity from a previous dengue infection, but it does not confirm an active current infection on its own.

• Is platelet testing needed along with this? Yes, monitoring platelet counts is crucial alongside this antibody test, as low platelets (thrombocytopenia) are a common and serious complication of dengue that requires close medical observation.

• Can dengue recur? Yes, dengue can recur because there are four different serotypes of the virus; infection with one provides lifelong immunity to that type but not the others, potentially leading to more severe secondary infections.

• Is this test confirmatory? No, while it's highly supportive, the Dengue IgG & IgM test is often combined with NS1 antigen detection or PCR for viral RNA to provide a more definitive confirmation of dengue infection.