Weil Felix Test for Rickettsia

Rickettsial infections are a group of vector-borne diseases caused by obligate intracellular bacteria of the genus Rickettsia. These infections are usually transmitted to humans through bites of infected arthropods such as ticks, mites, lice, or fleas. Common rickettsial diseases include epidemic typhus, scrub typhus, and spotted fever group rickettsioses. Patients with rickettsial infections often present with acute febrile illness, rashes (exanthema), and visceral symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and malaise.

The Weil Felix Test for Rickettsia is a traditional serological test used to support the diagnosis of  rickettsial infections. It is based on the principle of cross-reactivity between antibodies produced during a rickettsial infection using Proteus antigens. If these antibodies are present in the blood, they react with the Proteus antigens and form agglutination (clumping), which may indicate an infection.

Doctors may recommend the Weil Felix Test for Rickettsia test for symptoms suggestive of rickettsial infection (fever, rash, headache, neurological symptoms) or known vector exposure. It provides screening support but cannot confirm infection, assess severity, or monitor treatment.

Usually, no special preparation is required for this test. Eat and drink as per the daily routine. However, sharing the clinical history, current medications, and supplement use with the doctor before giving the sample is preferred, as these may influence the results.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Do not self-medicate and always consult a doctor to understand the test results correctly. 

Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample for this test is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.