Filaria Antigen near me in Bhopal
The Filaria Antigen test is a blood test used to detect the presence of specific antigens released by adult filarial worms. These worms cause lymphatic filariasis, a parasitic disease. This test is used to identify an ongoing filarial infection, allowing for early detection and guiding appropriate treatment options. It is widely available at an affordable price with Tata 1mg labs in Bhopal.
The Filaria Antigen test is recommended for individuals exhibiting symptoms like unexplained swelling, fever, or lymphatic inflammation. It is also used to screen individuals in endemic regions or travelers returning from these areas who may have been exposed to filarial infections. Moreover, it helps distinguish between past exposure and current active infection, crucial for effective management and treatment decisions.
No special preparation is required for the Filaria Antigen test. Eat and drink as per the daily routine.
Understanding Filaria Antigen
Filarial infections are caused by parasitic worms, usually Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori. These worms are spread to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The infection can lead to serious diseases, including lymphatic filariasis, which causes swelling in the arms, legs, genitals, or breasts, and is often called elephantiasis.
The Filaria Antigen test detects antigens released by adult female filarial worms into the blood. These antigens are proteins that circulate in the blood and are one of the earliest markers of infection. This test helps find active infections because it can detect filarial antigens even before the body makes enough antibodies. Early detection with this test is important for initiating treatment, which can help control the disease and prevent serious problems like permanent disability.
The Filaria Antigen test is recommended for individuals who have symptoms like unexplained swelling, fever, or inflammation in the lymph nodes. It’s also used for people living in areas where filarial infections are common or travelers who may have been exposed to these infections.
No special preparation is needed for the Filaria Antigen test. However, it’s important to tell the doctor about any medicines, supplements, or health conditions before the test, as they could affect the results.
Lab test results may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results need to be interpreted by a doctor. Never try to treat at home based only on these results. Always see a doctor to fully understand the test findings. The information from the test helps doctors formulate the right treatment plan, especially for people living in areas with a high risk of infection.
What does Filaria Antigen measure?
The Filaria Antigen test is a qualitative rapid immunochromatographic test for the detection of antigens in the blood, which are proteins released by adult female filarial worms. This test is helpful because it can detect these antigens before the worms’ larvae (microfilariae) appear in the blood, allowing for early detection of the infection.
The filarial antigens are usually found when the infection is active and are good markers for identifying people who are currently infected, as well as whether the infection is recent or ongoing. A positive result means there is an active infection, while a negative result can rule out the disease. This test is important for managing lymphatic filariasis, helping to prevent serious long-term problems like elephantiasis, and reducing the risk of spreading the infection, especially in areas where the disease is common.