Dengue Antigen Test
Dr Pravallika KLast Updated on 21st March 2022Table of contents
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What is the Dengue Antigen test used for?
Dengue Antigen Testing is used for detecting the presence of the dengue virus in a person presenting with symptoms related to dengue. The test reliability is more during the acute phase of infection with the dengue virus. That is, from day 1 of onset of fever till day 7. After 7 days, NS1 antigen is usually not recommended and a different antibody called IgM is used for detecting dengue infection.
What is included in the Dengue Antigen test?
Dengue Antigen test includes the detection of a Non-structural protein called NS1. NS1 is a protein produced by the dengue virus in the blood.
Synthetic antibodies used in the test kit bind to the NS1 proteins that are released by the virus in the serum, thus helping in detecting the presence of the dengue virus. Therefore, an NS1 positive Dengue Antigen test indicates the presence of viral infection.
Procedure for Dengue Antigen test
A certified lab technician from MFine will come to your home to collect the samples. First, the blood sample is drawn from the vein using a needle. The entire procedure ensures precautions, hygiene, and safety measures. Then, the sample is handled with utmost care and transported to our accredited laboratory of your choice. In the laboratory, a skilled technician will separate serum from the blood and analyse the presence of non-structural protein (NS1). Your lab results will be available in your MFine profile within 24-48 hours. You can download your test report from there.
How to prepare for the Dengue Antigen test?
No specific preparation is needed for the test. There are no such requirements. Inform your healthcare provider/doctor about the medications you may be taking. It is highly advisable to tell your doctor about your medications before any procedure.
Taking into consideration the current COVID-19 pandemic, kindly take appropriate preventive measures. For example, wear a clean mask, sanitise your hands before sample collection, and maintain social distance apart from sample collection. Likewise, the lab technicians follow required COVID-19 precautionary measures before sample collection.
Things to consider after the Dengue Antigen test is complete
Your lab report will be uploaded to your MFine profile on completing the test procedures. The entire process will be completed within 24- 48 hours. You can download the report, and book a doctor consultation through MFine for further talks.
Once you receive the report, consult a doctor for an accurate interpretation of test results. Do not self diagnose.
What types of infection can the Dengue Antigen test detect?
The Dengue Antigen test detects acute phase infection with the dengue virus, during the initial stages of the disease. The NS1 may show false positivity in the presence of other flaviviruses like the Zika virus or in people infected with or vaccinated against Yellow Fever or Japanese Encephalitis.
How much does the Dengue Antigen test cost?
The cost of the Dengue Antigen test depends on the laboratory of your choice, the service offered, and other facilities. On an approximate estimation, the test price starts from INR 400. After that, it can go up to INR 1300 based on the lab and location.
*Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.
How long does it take to get the results for the Dengue Antigen test?
You can expect to get the results for the Dengue Antigen test within 24 to 48 hours after the sample is collected. However, in some instances, depending on the location, medical advice, and preferred lab partner, it may take longer.
What do abnormal Dengue Antigen test results indicate?
A non-structural protein produced during dengue viral infection can be detected faster. NS1 antigen can be detected as early as 24 hours from the onset of symptoms and can be detectable up to 7 days. It is an efficient biomarker for dengue diagnosis in the acute phase of infection. And the reference is also comparatively simple. It is either positive (antigen present) or negative (antigen absent). The reference remains the same for all the age groups.
Interpretation: (Result in index)
Positive (>1.1): A positive NS1 antigen test result indicates the presence of acute-phase dengue infection in the body.
Negative (<0.9): Meanwhile, a negative NS1 antigen test result indicates different scenarios.
- For a test that is taken between 12-24 hours from the onset of fever, the test might be “undecidable”. The test has to be repeated after 24 hours.
- If the test is done from day 1 to day seven from the onset of fever, and the test is negative it might mean no dengue infection.
- The test is taken from day 1 to day seven, and if the patient tests positive, it indicates the presence of dengue infection. But if the test is negative and the patient suffers from symptoms relevant to dengue-like severe fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, and rash. The test result might be considered as “False Negative”. The repeat test or additional tests may be advised by your doctor.
- If the test is taken after seven days from the onset of fever, NS1 is no longer a reliable test. An additional antibody (IgM) test is required for diagnosis.
Equivocal (0.9-1.1): You will be advised for retesting by your doctor after a few days based on your symptoms.
Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor to interpret the test reports.
Is the Dengue Antigen test definitive?
Dengue Antigen test is one definitive test in the acute phase of infection with the dengue virus. The test is used to diagnose dengue in the early onset of symptoms, that is, high-grade fever. However if someone tests negative and highly suspicious of Dengue, antibody tests are required to diagnose. After the acute phase infection, the immune system intervenes with the test results. Meaning you might need additional tests if you are testing a week after the fever onset. Always get a consultation from your doctor before performing any test or procedure.
How to read the Dengue Antigen test report?
Dengue Antigen test report is a straightforward interpretation test report. The test is either positive or negative. The test analyzes the presence of a non-structural protein called NS1 produced during the viral infection. NS1 is the most useful biomarker in dengue detection because it appears in the blood within 24 hours from the onset of fever. And it will be detectable in serum up to the 7th – 9th day from the onset of symptoms.
NS1 | Test date (from the onset of symptoms) | Dengue |
Positive | Day 1 – 7 | Present |
Negative | Day 1 – 7 | Absent |
Negative | After 7th – 9th day. | undecidable |
Always consult a doctor to interpret test results for better assessment. You can also book an online consultation with MFine doctors. You can choose your preferred doctor based on your language preference, location, and fees range. Then, you can connect with your doctor through video call, send your test report and get a prescription. All you need to do is download the MFine app, create your profile and book an online consultation with specialists.
Book your Dengue Antigen test today, give a blood sample from the comfort of your home, and get test results. Everything is possible from one place with MFine.
Why book a Dengue Antigen test?
- Doctors advise a Dengue Antigen test for detecting dengue fever. The antigen test analyses a Non-structural protein known as NS1 in the blood serum. NS1 is produced by the virus into the bloodstream during the infection.
- A positive NS1 test result means the patient is highly suspected of dengue infection.
- If you have a few or more of the following clinical symptoms, you must take an NS1 antigen test. The symptoms are high-grade fever, severe headache, orbital pain (pain behind the eyes), body pain, and fatigue.
- The dengue is more prevalent in Southeast Asia, Central and South America like Texas, Africa, and Pacific islands. And is a seasonal-endemic disease that particularly peaks in December, January, and February.
- Considering the above-mentioned facts about dengue, if you are present in a dengue-endemic area and also have the clinical symptoms. Book your NS1 antigen test immediately and take an online consultation with an MFine doctor.
- Book your online consultation instantly with MFine. Download the app, create your profile and book your consultation. You can choose your doctor based on language preference, location, time, and cost ranges.
- With MFine, take a healthy initiative today!
Dengue Antigen test at home – how does it work?
The Dengue Antigen test is just like any other blood test. A lab technician visits your home when you book your tests through the MFine app. The lab technician first cleans the arm and then inserts a needle attached to a syringe into a vein. The required amount of blood is then taken into a vacutainer. The lab technician then removes the needle and places cotton wool or a bandage over the prick.
Are there any risks involved with the Dengue Antigen test?
No, the Dengue Antigen test or NS1 antigen test is one of the less invasive procedures with much lesser risk concerns. However, you might feel slight numbness near the injection site that fades away sooner. There is no potential risk factor associated with the Dengue Antigen test. Still, always consider getting consultation from your doctor before any tests or procedures.
What can affect the results of the Dengue Antigen test?
Factors affecting the test results are relatively less in the Dengue Antigen test.
No external factor can make extreme changes in the test results.
NS1 is a non-structural protein released into the bloodstream during the dengue viral infection, which is primarily analysed for detecting the presence of the dengue virus and is accessible only during the initial days of onset of fever. So, if you are getting tested after one week of onset of fever, your doctor might order an additional antibody(IgM) test and an NS1 antigen test.
For further assistance
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
Is the lab technician coming for Dengue Antigen test sample collection vaccinated?
Yes. Our lab technicians are fully vaccinated. Further, they also ensure safety by wearing masks, gloves and frequently sanitising themselves during the sample collection.
Does MFine provide the interpretation for the results along with the reports?
Yes, MFine provides the interpretation for the result along with the reports. You can also avail a free medical consultation with a doctor to understand your reports accurately. The doctor will also advise and prescribe medicines, if required, based on the results.
How can I download my Dengue Antigen test report?
- Login to MFine
- Go to your profile
- Click on Attachment and Reports
- Click on Lab Report
- Download the report
Are there any discount offers running on the Dengue Antigen test?
Usually, you can avail of up to 50% discount on the Dengue Antigen test through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.
What tests are used for detecting dengue other than the NS1 antigen test?
Complete blood profile (for Platelet count) and Haemoglobin test are used in suspected cases of dengue.
In addition, serological tests like the IgM antibody test can also be used in dengue infection detection. Most importantly, an IgM antibody test is helpful for a patient presenting to the hospital after one week of onset of fever.
IgG antibody test is useful to find out past infections in a person. This test is useful to diagnose dengue infection after the first week of infection. IgG antibodies are developed in the serum only in the second week of illness.
Dengue RNA PCR test is another test used to detect the dengue virus in the acute phase of infection. But this test can be performed only in certain laboratories.
What is Dengue? How does a person contract a dengue infection?
- Dengue is a viral infection that is transmitted from female mosquitoes to humans. An infected Aedes aegypti species mosquito bite transmits the dengue virus into the human body.
- Dengue infection presents with high-grade fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, nausea/vomiting, joint pain, muscle pain, and whole-body tiredness.
- Most people with mild to moderate dengue will recover in a week. At the same time, the severe form of dengue requires immediate medical attention.
What is the treatment for Dengue infection?
- There is no specific treatment/ antiviral medicine available for dengue as of now. Researchers and scientists are working on a direct dengue cure.
- The management protocol is a symptom-based approach like rest, fever reducers, pain relievers, IV fluids.
- The severe form of dengue i.e., Dengue Hemorrhagic fever is life-threatening; you must consider getting immediate medical attention.
- Please consult a doctor for your illness; he will prescribe the required medical treatment. For mild to moderate dengue infection, a doctor’s consultation and home-based care are good. For severe dengue, you must get admitted to a hospital.
How can dengue be prevented?
Reduce your risk of getting infected with the dengue virus by taking preventive measures:
- Wear protective clothing outdoors – wear long-sleeve shirts and pants
- Use mosquito mesh on windows and doors
- Use mosquito nets while sleeping
- Use mosquito repellents
- Avoid odour that attracts mosquitoes
- Have a clean and tidy home.
- Do not have stagnant water uncovered which causes mosquitoes to breed
Can I use natural treatment methods and diet plans for dengue?
Dengue is different from other viral infections. Other viral infections last for a week; meanwhile, dengue takes longer to cure. Dengue has higher mortality compared to other viral infections. So, it needs additional medical care, not just diet plans. It is highly advisable to consult a doctor for treatment as soon as you develop symptoms. If your fever persists for more than 3-4 days, get medical attention as early as possible. If you have severe symptoms, get a consultation immediately.
What happens in a severe dengue infection? Or What are the symptoms of the extreme form of dengue?
Dengue virus has four stereotypes. It is possible to get infected four times as there is no cross-protection. Usually, a repeat dengue infection with a different stereotype virus is found to be severe and life-threatening. Nevertheless, recovery from dengue infection with a stereotype can provide lifelong immunity for that particular stereotype.
Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a severe form of dengue. It is life-threatening. The following symptoms are associated with DHF: severe abdominal pain, severe vomiting, bleeding through the nose or mouth or in stools, internal bleeding, external bruising on the skin, rashes, severe body pain, breathing difficulty and restlessness.
Without prompt treatment, the condition may worsen to hemorrhagic shock (Dengue Shock Syndrome), and death.
What happens if a pregnant woman contracts dengue infection?
There is a paucity of data about the health outcomes of dengue in pregnancy. Dengue in a pregnant woman can be more harmful than in the general population. The infection can get transmitted from mother to baby and may cause infection in the newborn. The babies may suffer, from low birth weight, premature birth, and the foetus’s overall growth can get affected. Prompt consultation and medical attention are needed if the mother shows any symptoms of dengue fever. Ensure the mother takes adequate fluids, eats appropriately, and takes sufficient rest.
Disclaimer: The content is uniquely informative and is meant for educational use. Kindly use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified or registered healthcare provider.