Dengue NS1 Test

Reasons for Undergoing the Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen Test

Dengue fever is an infectious disease caused by a virus transmitted through mosquito bites, particularly those of Aedes aegypti species. Symptoms may include high fever, severe headache, joint pain, muscle and bone pain and rash. If left untreated or not diagnosed early enough, it might progress to severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic fever causing organ damage and even death.

The Dengue fever NS1 antigen test plays a crucial role in diagnosing dengue. Here are some reasons why this test is performed:

• Early Detection: The NS1 antigen appears within 24-48 hours of infection, making it possible for early diagnosis.
• Confirmation of Infection: The presence of the NS1 antigen confirms an active dengue infection.
• Initiation of Treatment: An early diagnosis facilitates prompt treatment and management.

Who all are eligible for this test?

The dengue NS1 antigen test is recommended for anyone suspected of having an acute dengue infection, especially within the first week of symptom onset.

This includes:

• People living in or traveling to dengue-endemic areas
• Those exhibiting dengue-like symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, joint pain, etc.
• Both children and adults presenting with signs of early dengue illness
  Your doctor will advise the dengue NS1 antigen test based on your symptoms, medical history, and potential exposure to infected mosquitoes.

Symptoms that may prompt the NS1 antigen test

If you experience any of the following symptoms, particularly within 7 days of a possible dengue exposure, your healthcare provider may order a dengue NS1 antigen test:

• Sudden onset of high fever (40°C/104°F)
• Intense headache, often behind the eyes
• Severe muscle and joint aches
• Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
• Skin rash appearing 2 to 5 days after fever begins
• Fatigue and general malaise
• Mild bleeding from the nose or gums

If you suspect dengue infection, don't hesitate to consult your doctor and get tested promptly. Look for labs that offer a reliable and affordable dengue test price.

What preparations are required before the NS1 blood test?

No special preparation is required for the dengue NS1 antigen test.

Here's what you should know:

• Fasting is not necessary before the blood test. You can eat and drink normally.
• Inform your doctor about any medications you're taking or existing health conditions.
• Wear a short-sleeved or loose top for easy access during the blood draw.

The dengue NS1 antigen test price is generally affordable and is widely available at most diagnostic centers including Metropolis Healthcare.

What is the procedure for the NS1 antigen test?

The NS1 antigen test procedure is straightforward and typically takes just a few minutes:

• A healthcare professional, often a phlebotomist, will clean the skin over a vein in your arm with an antiseptic.
• A needle is then inserted into the vein to collect a small blood sample in a tube. You may feel a slight sting.
• The blood sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed using the Chemiluminescence Immunoassay (CLIA) method for accurate detection of the dengue virus NS1 antigen.

What if the NS1 test reports are positive?

A positive dengue NS1 test report confirms you have an acute dengue infection. It means the dengue virus is actively replicating in your body.

If your result is positive, here's what you can expect:

• Your doctor will recommend rest, plenty of fluids, and fever-reducing medications, such as paracetamol.
• They'll advise against aspirin or ibuprofen, as these can increase bleeding risk.
• You'll need regular monitoring through blood tests to check your platelet count and watch for warning signs of severe dengue.
• In some cases, you may require supportive care with intravenous fluids and close observation in a hospital setting.
• Additional tests, such as dengue IgM and IgG antibody tests, may be conducted to determine infection stage and immune response.

What do the Dengue NS1 test results indicate?

The dengue NS1 antigen test report provides clear results that help determine if you have a dengue infection.

Here's how to interpret the results:

• Positive Result:
  • Indicates presence of dengue virus NS1 antigen in blood
  • Confirms acute dengue infection within first few days of illness
  • May not identify specific virus serotype
• Negative Result:
  • NS1 antigen not detected in sample
  • Doesn't completely rule out dengue infection
  • Antigen levels may be too low or testing done too late
  • Recommend follow-up dengue antibody tests for confirmation

In some cases, your doctor may advise repeating the test or conducting additional tests based on your symptoms and clinical presentation. Accurate interpretation is key for proper diagnosis and management.

What are the risks associated with a dengue NS1 test?

The dengue NS1 antigen test is a very safe and routinely performed diagnostic test.

As with any blood test, there are a few minor risks:

• Bruising or swelling at the needle site
• Dizziness or lightheadedness during blood draw
• Slight pain or discomfort when needle is inserted
• Very rarely, infection at the puncture site may occur if the area is not kept clean

List of Parameters Considered During the Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen Test

The Dengue fever NS1 antigen test focuses on detecting one main parameter - the presence of Dengue NS1 antigen in the blood, detected using a method called CLIA (Chemiluminescence Immunoassay).

Certain conditions can interfere with the test results, such as:

• Hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells)
• Lipemia (excess fat or lipids in the blood)
• Icterus (jaundice)

These are carefully screened for during the Dengue test to ensure accurate results.

Home Collection for Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen Test Near You

Home collection for the Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen Test offers a convenient solution for individuals to get tested without visiting a clinic. With Metropolis Healthcare's lab services, a trained phlebotomist comes to your doorstep to collect blood samples. This service ensures comfort and safety while maintaining high standards of sample handling and testing accuracy. Patients can expect a seamless experience with timely and reliable results, empowering them to take proactive steps in managing their health. Metropolis Healthcare's commitment to accessible healthcare underscores its dedication to providing quality diagnostic solutions conveniently at home.

Dengue Fever NS1 Antigen Test Price in Different Cities

Dengue test price varies across different cities due to factors like operational costs and local taxes. The standard Dengue fever test price in most major Indian cities is around ₹750.