Dengue RNA PCR, Qualitative

Dengue RNA PCR, Qual test is performed to diagnose dengue fever. It detects the presence of genetic material of the dengue virus in the blood sample. This test is prescribed by the doctor when symptoms of dengue appear like sudden onset of high fever, joint pains, severe headaches, bleeding from gums or nose, low amount of white blood cells, and when exposed to the dengue virus is suspected, for example during an outbreak.
Dengue fever is characterized in two phases acute and convalescent. The initial muscle pain and fever symptoms fall in an acute phase which lasts for 4-5 days. Once the fever subsides the convalescent phase begins. Dengue virus level is higher in blood during the first phase and, therefore, a real-time PCR test is carried out to detect this virus so that it can be treated in its initial stages itself.