Dengue IgG Test
Exploring
Immunity through
Dengue IgG
Test
Dengue IgG test
is a diagnostic blood test that helps in the detection of the presence of
immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies specific to the dengue virus. These
antibodies are produced by the immune system when there is an infection caused
by the dengue virus. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies are formed later in the
infection stage and take time to develop and become detectable in the blood
after infection. This is referred to as a window period and typically takes a
few weeks after the onset of the symptoms. The test is an important tool in
assessing a person’s immune response to the virus, determining past exposure,
and examining their immunity status.
Overview of the Key Aspects of Dengue IgG Test:
Purpose of this Test:
The dengue IgG
test is commonly used to determine if an individual has been previously exposed
to dengue virus, evaluated the level of immunity against dengue virus, and
provide insights into the risk of an individual for future dengue infections.
Procedure:
●
The healthcare provider or
phlebotomist will collect a blood sample from the vein in the arm of the
patient.
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The collected sample is then
stored in specialized tubes and sent to the laboratory for further assessment.
The major goal here is to separate the serum from the blood cells.
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Since there are different ways
to analyse a blood sample for dengue antibodies, some laboratories use
specialized test kits that contain dengue-specific antigens that react with the
antibodies in the blood.
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Presence of dengue antibodies
indicates a previous exposure to dengue virus.
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The laboratory will then send
the reports with a positive or negative interpretation.
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A positive result indicates
past or current dengue infection and a negative result indicates no dengue
specific antibodies are present in the blood.
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The healthcare provider will
interpret the results based on the patients’ medical history, symptoms, and
other relevant health conditions.
Benefits:
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Relatively safe, quick, and
non-invasive test
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Provides insights into an
individual’s exposure to dengue virus and evaluating their immune response
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Provides confirmation of
previous exposure
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Helps in determining risk of
future exposures to dengue virus
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Helps in differentiating
between primary and secondary infections
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Helpful in determining risk or
susceptibility to dengue infection of an individual who has travelled to
regions where dengue is endemic
Patients must
provide their healthcare providers with comprehensive medical history including
current medications and previous illnesses as it allows for accurate
interpretation of the test results. Patients should avoid unnecessary testing
if they don’t have symptoms or risk of exposure to dengue virus. Patients must
ensure to discuss results with healthcare providers as they can help and guide
them through treatment measures.
