Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM
Understanding Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM
What is Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM?
A Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM test plays a crucial role in diagnosing dengue, a viral infection caused by the dengue virus. This test measures the levels of the NS1 antigen and IgG and IgM antibodies in the blood. Together, they help determine the stage of infection, differentiate between recent and past infections, and aid in the appropriate and timely management of the infection.
Dengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus. The virus is transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. It typically presents with a sudden onset of symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding. Early detection and differentiation are crucial, as secondary dengue infections can sometimes lead to more severe forms of the disease, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. Upon infection, the dengue virus produces NS1 antigen protein during the early stages, and our immune system produces IgG and IgM antibodies in response to the virus.
A Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM test targets these different components of the immune response and the virus itself. The presence of NS1 antigen in the blood indicates an acute phase of infection (within the first few days of symptoms). It helps in early diagnosis, as it can be detected even before the body produces antibodies. IgM antibodies are the first type of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to a dengue infection. They typically appear within 3-5 days after the onset of symptoms and persist for about 2-3 months. Their presence suggests a recent dengue infection. Whereas, IgG antibodies develop later in the course of the disease and stay for an extended period. Their presence indicates a past dengue infection or immunity from a previous infection. However, rising IgG levels may indicate a secondary dengue infection.
Usually, no special preparation is required for a Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM test; eat and drink as per your daily routine. Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. It is essential to interpret the results with clinical history, symptoms, and other laboratory findings to accurately assess the dengue infection status and formulate an overall treatment plan.
What is Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM used for?
A Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM test is done:
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If an individual experiences symptoms suggestive of dengue fever, such as fever, body pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, rash, and pain behind the eyes.
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For diagnosis and management of dengue infection.
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To differentiate between current and past dengue infection.
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In case of recent travel history to dengue endemic areas.
What does Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM measure?
Contains 3 testsA Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM test detects the NS1 protein of the dengue virus and the antibodies IgG and IgM produced by the body in response to the infection.
The dengue NS1, also known as dengue nonstructural protein 1, is used to diagnose dengue fever early. This protein is secreted into the blood immediately after the infection; hence, it can be detected during the early stages of the infection.
IgM antibodies are the first type produced by the immune system in response to a dengue infection. The IgM test helps identify recent or primary dengue infections, providing information about the active immune response. It is most accurate when performed a few days after the onset of symptoms. With time, IgM antibodies fall below detectable levels.
IgG antibodies are produced more slowly in response to an infection. Levels of IgG rise with acute infection, stabilize, and persist for a more extended period. The IgG test helps identify past dengue infections and can help assess immunity. It may also be seen in the later stages of an acute infection.
Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen
The Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen test measures the NS-1 protein of the dengue virus. This protein is secreted into the blood during the infection; hence, it can only be detected during the early stages of the illness. It is recommended to do the Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen test in the first 5 days of fever. After 7-10 days of continuous fever, the recommended test is Dengue fever antibodies IgG & IgM.
Dengue fever may progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome if left untreated. Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) includes variable manifestations like bleeding, vomiting blood, passing blood in the stool, difficulty breathing, and cold, clammy skin, especially in the extremities. If progressed, the virus may attack blood vessels, causing capillaries to leak fluid into the space around the lungs (pleural effusion) or the abdominal cavity (ascites).
Dengue shock syndrome (DSS) is a severe complication of dengue fever caused when the body's immune system overreacts to the dengue virus. It can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure and dehydration; if not managed timely, it may lead to multiple organ failures.
There is no specific treatment for dengue, but early diagnostic testing, such as the Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen test, can prevent the advancement of dengue to its complicated forms.
Know more about Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen
Dengue Fever, IgG & IgM
A Dengue Fever, IgG & IgM test measures two parameters in the blood: IgG and IgM antibodies. When a dengue infection occurs, IgM antibodies are the first line of defense, and detection of these antibodies is most effective when done at least 7–10 days after exposure. With time, IgM antibodies fall below detectable levels. IgG antibodies, however, are produced more slowly in response to the infection. Levels of IgG rise with acute infection, stabilize, and persist for a long time.
Dengue fever is usually caused by the four dengue virus serotypes, with symptoms ranging from asymptomatic infection, undifferentiated fever, dengue fever (DF) to severe dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) with or without shock.
Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) can go to a higher grade of fever. It might also include variable manifestations, like nose bleeding, vomiting blood, passing blood in the stool, breathing difficulty, cold, and clammy skin, especially in the extremities. During the second phase, the virus may attack blood vessels, causing capillaries to leak fluid into the space around the lungs (pleural effusion) or the abdominal cavity (ascites).
Dengue shock syndrome (DSS) is a severe complication of dengue fever caused when the body's immune system overreacts to the dengue virus. It can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure and dehydration, and if not managed timely, it may lead to multiple organ failures.
Know more about Dengue Fever, IgG & IgM
This further contains
- Dengue Antibody, IgM
- Dengue Fever IgG Antibody, EIA
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM
Frequently Asked Questions about Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM
Q. What is the purpose of a Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM test?
Q. When is a Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM test typically performed?
Q. How can a Dengue Fever Antigen NS1, IgG & IgM test help differentiate between past and recent dengue infections?
Q. How is a Dengue NS1 Antigen test different from a Dengue Antibody test?
Q. What are the most common symptoms of dengue infection?
Q. How many days does dengue fever last?
Q. What is the difference between primary and secondary dengue infections?
Q. How serious can a dengue fever be?
Q. What foods increase platelets in patients with dengue?
Q. What treatments are available for dengue?
Q. How can I prevent dengue infection at home?
Q. Is dengue infection contagious?
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References
- Dengue and severe dengue [Internet]. WHO; 17 Mar. 2023 [Accessed 27 Sept. 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 27 Sept. 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 27 Sept. 2023]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/transmission/pregnancy.html
- Dengue [Internet]. CDC; 15 Aug. 2023 [Accessed 27 Sept. 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 27 Sept. 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 27 Sept. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8813012/
- Dengue Virus Antigen Detection [Internet]. CDC; 03 May 2019 [Accessed 27 Sept. 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 27 Sept. 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 27 Sept. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9963119/
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