Description

The Dengue Fever IgG/IgM test detects antibodies in the blood to help confirm a dengue virus infection.

Types of Antibodies Measured:

  • IgM antibodies:
  • Indicate a current or recent infection.
  • Detectable about 3–7 days after infection and can remain detectable for up to 6 months.
  • Cross-reactivity is possible; IgM may also be positive in infections with similar viruses like chikungunya.
  • IgG antibodies:
  • Indicate past exposure to the dengue virus.
  • Usually appear 2–4 weeks after a primary infection and can persist for years, providing long-term immunity.

Interpreting Results:

  • Positive IgM + IgG: Suggests a recent or ongoing infection.
  • Positive IgG only: Suggests past infection or immunity.
  • Negative IgM and IgG: Indicates no detectable infection or antibody levels too low to measure.

Clinical Uses:

  • Confirms dengue infection in patients with symptoms such as fever, headache, rash, muscle and joint pain, or bleeding tendencies.
  • Helps differentiate dengue from other viral infections with similar symptoms.

Fasting: Not required.