Infectious DiseaseInfectious Disease

Dengue ELISA

Normal Range
Negative (< 0.90 Index)
Sample Type
Serum
Fasting
No
Unit
Index Value

Function

The Dengue ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is a diagnostic tool used to detect the presence of Dengue virus antigens (NS1) or antibodies (IgM and IgG) in the blood. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the Flavivirus. The test helps distinguish between an acute infection, a recent infection, or a past exposure to one of the four serotypes of the virus.

Why it is Ordered

This test is ordered when a patient presents with symptoms suggestive of Dengue fever, such as high fever, severe headache (retro-orbital), muscle and joint pains (breakbone fever), and rash. It is critical for early diagnosis to monitor for complications like Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), which require intensive supportive care.

Associated Conditions

  • Acute Dengue Fever: Characterized by positive NS1 and/or IgM.
  • Secondary Dengue Infection: Characterized by a rapid rise in IgG levels. This is clinically significant as secondary infections with a different serotype increase the risk of severe disease.
  • Differential Diagnosis: Helps differentiate Dengue from other tropical fevers like Malaria, Typhoid, or Zika virus infection.

Check Your Result

Check Your Result

Interactive
Index Value

Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.

Why Context Matters

Timing is the most critical confounding factor in Dengue testing. Testing too early (before day 3) might result in a negative IgM, while testing too late might result in a negative NS1 antigen. Cross-reactivity with other flaviviruses (like Zika or Yellow Fever) or recent vaccinations can cause false-positive IgG/IgM results. Hydration status and hematocrit levels should be monitored alongside ELISA for clinical accuracy.

Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.

Clinical References

Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Dengue ELISA:

Research & Guidelines

Related Indicators

Anti-HEV Antibodies

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VDRL Test

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Anti-HBc IgM

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DR

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS

Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience

Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.

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