Home›Filaria Antibody, IgG

Content created by

Written by

BDS, MDS - Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology

Reviewed by

Dr. Ashish Ranjan

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Want to know more?
Read our Editorial Policy

Filaria Antibody, IgG

Also known as Filaria Antibody Test

₹809~~₹900~~ 10% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Filaria Antibody, IgG

What is Filaria Antibody, IgG?

The Filaria Antibody, IgG test is used to detect the presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against filarial parasites that cause lymphatic filariasis. This test helps determine whether an individual has been exposed to filarial parasites in the past, providing valuable insight for diagnosing previous infections.

Filarial infections are caused by parasitic worms, most commonly Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori, and are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. These parasites can lead to various debilitating diseases, including lymphatic filariasis, which often manifests as swelling in the limbs, genitals, or breasts, commonly known as elephantiasis.

Filaria Antibody IgG antibodies are produced by the immune system as a response to past exposure to the filarial parasites and persist in the body for a very long time even after the infection is resolved. This makes the Filaria Antibody, IgG particularly useful for identifying individuals who have been exposed to filarial parasites in the past, even if they are no longer experiencing active symptoms.

This test is recommended for individuals living in or traveling to endemic areas where filarial infections are common. It is also beneficial for individuals with symptoms such as swelling in the limbs, scrotum, or breasts, fever, or recurrent episodes of lymph node inflammation, which may be suggestive of lymphatic filariasis. Additionally, doctors use this test to distinguish between active, ongoing infections and previous exposures, facilitating timely and appropriate treatment strategies.

No special preparation is needed for the Filaria Antibody, IgG. However, it is important to inform the doctor about any medications, supplements, or medical conditions before the test as these factors may potentially 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. Always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results. The insights provided by the test can help doctors develop an appropriate management plan, especially for those living in endemic regions or who may be at higher risk of infection.

What is Filaria Antibody, IgG used for?

The Filaria Antibody, IgG test is done:

To diagnose past exposure to filarial parasites, particularly in individuals who have lived in or traveled to endemic regions.
To differentiate between previous (latent) infections and current or active infections.
To find the cause of symptoms such as swelling or lymphatic complications, indicative of long-term exposure to the parasite.
To monitor individuals with known chronic filarial diseases, such as elephantiasis or hydrocele.
To evaluate the immune response and history of filarial infections in patients with unexplained symptoms that may be related to filariasis.

What does Filaria Antibody, IgG measure?

The Filaria Antibody, IgG test detects the presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in the blood. These antibodies are developed in a later stage of infection and persist long after the infection has been cleared and serve as markers of past exposure. The presence of these antibodies can help confirm exposure, though it does not necessarily indicate an active infection. The test is most useful in assessing the immune status of individuals and determining whether they have been previously exposed to lymphatic filariasis.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Filaria Antibody, IgG

Frequently Asked Questions about Filaria Antibody, IgG

Q. What is the Filaria Antibody, IgG test?

The Filaria Antibody, IgG test determines the presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in the blood. These antibodies are produced by the immune system in response to filarial parasites, such as Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, or Brugia timori. The test helps to check whether an individual has been previously exposed to these parasites.

Q. Who should take the Filaria Antibody, IgG test?

This test is advised for individuals who live in or have traveled to areas where filarial infections are common. It is also helpful for those who are experiencing symptoms such as swelling in the limbs, scrotum, or breasts, or those with a history of recurrent lymphatic issues.

Q. What do the results of the Filaria Antibody IgG Test mean?

A positive IgG test indicates past exposure to the filarial parasite, suggesting that the individual has been infected in the past but may not have an active infection anymore. On the contrary, a negative result indicates no detectable past exposure to the parasite. However, it does not rule out the possibility of a recent infection, as IgG antibodies are developed in the later stage of the infection.

Q. How is filariasis transmitted?

Filariasis is transmitted through mosquitoes that carry the larvae of the filarial worms. When an infected mosquito bites a human, the larvae are transmitted into the blood. These larvae mature into adult worms that affect the lymphatic system.

Q. What are the symptoms of filariasis?

Filariasis may not reveal notable manifestations during its early phase. However, with time, it may cause chronic swelling of limbs, the scrotum, or even the breasts (elephantiasis), fever, pain, and inflammation of lymph nodes.

Q. How can filariasis be prevented?

Prevention of filariasis involves controlling mosquito populations and avoiding mosquito bites. This can be done by using mosquito repellent, sleeping under bed nets, particularly in endemic areas, and implementing mosquito control programs, such as spraying insecticides and draining standing water where mosquitoes breed.

Q. Is filariasis contagious?

No, filariasis is not contagious from person to person. It is only transmitted through mosquito bites, meaning you cannot catch it by coming into contact with an infected person.

Q. Is there any vaccine to prevent filariasis?

There is no vaccine available as yet to prevent filariasis. The primary preventative measures would be controlling the mosquitoes and personal protection against mosquito bites.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.

+ more