OVERVIEW
What is Dengue?
It is a viral infection which is transmitted into humans via mosquito (Aedes aegypti). Such mosquitos breed in tropical & subtropical climates & bear the virus in them, which is passed into humans when mosquito bites and sucks blood. There are 1- 4 serotypes (or types) of dengue virus namely DV-1, -2, -3, -4. Dengue occurs in majority of individuals who travel to endemic countries (i.e., having high prevalence of dengue cases). Most infected individuals show no symptoms, but some commonly seen initial symptoms include sudden high fever (40 degree C), severe headache, pain behind eyes/muscle or in joints, skin rash, nausea/vomiting, and other flu-like symptoms appearing after 4 or 7 days of being bitten.
What is dengue NS1 antigen lab test?
Dengue infection can be diagnosed in laboratory via detection of virus, viral nucleic acid, antigens (substance from outside body’s environment) or antibodies (substance produced by body’s immune system to fight infection). In this test we detect NS1 (non-structural protein 1) antigen of dengue virus. This NS1 protein is secreted in blood during dengue infection.
Why is dengue NS1 antigen lab test done?
The test is done:
- As it helps in early detection ( < or = 7 days after fever onset) of dengue. This test not recommended after 7 days.
- It aids in confirmation of dengue infection in patients who have a travel history and clinical symptoms.
- When patients show flu-like symptoms and high grade fever characterized for dengue.
- As NS1 antigen is detectable during acute phase of dengue infection in blood.
