DENGUE ANTIBODY IGM

The Dengue Antibody IgM test is done to identify the presence of IgM type antibodies in the blood that respond specifically to the dengue virus. These antibodies, called IgM, are the first to appear after the body contracts dengue. Because dengue fever left untreated can badly harm a person or can even lead to death, this test is key in making accurate diagnosis. 

To test for the presence of IgM antibodies, we conduct an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In an ELISA test, a patient’s blood is taken and then mixed with plates that capture certain antibodies — in this case, antibodies to the dengue virus. If a person has IgM in the blood, then these antibodies recognize the proteins coating the plate, adhere to it, and thus a positive reaction occurs. 

Dengue Antibody IgM Test determines the concentration of IgM against the dengue virus in the blood test. This test also tries to determine if the patient has been infected with the dengue virus by measuring the level of these antibodies. 

This test is usually carried out as part of the routine tests done on patients who had or have suspected cases of dengue fever including:  

• Sudden fever that can exceed 38–40 degrees (Celsius)  
• Intense migraines  
• Retro-orbital pain  
• Myalgia and Arthralgia  
• Skin lesions  
• Hyperemesis should also be present in pregnant women. 

Another possibility is for people who have travelled recently to regions where it is endemic, and they needed to rule out dengue fever.  

There are some risks and limitations associated with the Dengue Antibody IgM Test:  

Risks:  

• Like other blood tests, there is the possibility of bleeding, bruising, and infection on the site of the needle. 
• Possible Incorrect Detection of Dengue Infection 
• A negative result can occur if the patient has been immunized from other flavivirus family members for example, yellow fever. 

Limitations: 

• The test may miss the detection of IgM antibodies at the onset of the infection (less than 5 days after symptom onset). 
• It may also confuse dengue with other flavivirus infections.  

• Presence of antibodies of the IgM class to the dengue virus 
• Concentration of IgM antibodies in serum.  
• Proportion of IgM antibodies to IgG antibodies (for determining the level of infection). These indicators assist in Centralized diagnosis of dengue and finding out infection census. 

The following people are recommended to take the Dengue Antibody IgM Test:  

• Suffering from dengue fever symptoms  
• People returning from highly infected regions. 
• People with a confirmed infection with the dengue virus. 

Some of the major benefits include:  

• Provides the earliest possible confirmation of diagnosis of dengue fever.  
• Controls the symptoms with timely intervention.  
• Avoidance of complications and severe diseases.  
• Determines who may be infected and put others at risk. 

The following can be diagnosed with the Dengue Antibody IgM Test:  

• Dengue fever  
• Severe forms of dengue such as a dengue haemorrhagic fever also known as dengue shock syndrome. 

For the test, the following arrangements should be made beforehand concerning the Dengue IgM test:  

Prerequisites: A healthcare provider consults to evaluate the patients' presenting complaints to find out if IgM dengue test is appropriate. 

Eligibility: People who recently visited an infected region or are exhibiting dengue symptoms can avail of the test 

Procedure for taking the test: A designated medical professional will extract the patient's blood sample, which will then be sent for analysis at a suitable laboratory  

Caution before the test: Patients are required to disclose any medication being taken as well as alert their physician on any allergies or sensitivities they have before the test is conducted