Filaria Antigen
Understanding Filaria Antigen
What is Filaria Antigen?
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.
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 is Filaria Antigen used for?
The Filaria Antigen test is done:
- To identify active lymphatic filariasis infections caused by Wuchereria bancrofti or Brugia malayi.
- To diagnose the presence of filarial antigens in individuals with symptoms of lymphatic filariasis such as swelling, fever, etc.
- To detect filarial infections in individuals who have traveled to or lived in endemic regions.
- To monitor individuals with chronic filarial diseases like elephantiasis or hydrocele.
- For assessing the effectiveness of antifilarial therapy in patients undergoing treatment.
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.
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Filaria Antigen
Frequently Asked Questions about Filaria Antigen
Q. Why is the Filaria Antigen test important?
Q. Who should get the Filaria Antigen test?
Q. How is the Filaria Antigen test performed?
Q. Are there any preparations needed for the Filaria Antigen test?
Q. Are there any risks associated with the Filaria Antigen test?
Q. What do the results of the Filaria Antigen test mean?
Q. Can a negative test mean I am not infected?
Q. How often should the Filaria Antigen test be done?
Q. How can I prevent filariasis?
Q. Can the Filaria Antigen test be used to monitor treatment?
Q. Can filariasis be transmitted from person to person?
Q. Can filariasis be cured completely?
Q. What types of filarial worms cause filariasis?
Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?
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References
- Newman TE, Juergens AL. Filariasis. [Updated 2023 Aug 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556012/
- Zulfiqar H, Malik A. Bancroftian Filariasis. [Updated 2023 Jul 31]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547682/
- Lymphatic filariasis [Internet]. WHO; 21 Nov. 2024 [Accessed 25 Nov. 2024]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/lymphatic-filariasis
- Prodjinotho UF, von Horn C, Debrah AY, Batsa Debrah L, Albers A, Layland LE, Hoerauf A, Adjobimey T. Pathological manifestations in lymphatic filariasis correlate with lack of inhibitory properties of IgG4 antibodies on IgE-activated granulocytes. PLoS Negl Trop Dis. 2017 Jul 24;11(7):e0005777. [Accessed 25 Nov. 2024] Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5542694/
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