Typhidot, IgM
Typhidot, IgM
Typhoid, commonly known as enteric fever, is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi. It spreads through the consumption of contaminated foods, beverages, and drinking water. When bacteria infect the body, the immune system produces various antibodies to fight the illness. IgM antibody is one of these antibodies that are produced during an early infection.
These IgM antibodies can be detected using typhidot IgM test, produced in response to Salmonella typhi infection in the body. This test is performed to determine the cause of any persistent fever or the presence of signs and symptoms of typhoid fever
Symptoms of typhoid fever
Fever
Fatigue
Stomach pain
Headache
Diarrhoea
Cough
Loss of appetite
Spots all over the body (rose-shaped)
Who should get tested?
The typhidot IgM test is recommended for individuals who:
Have symptoms of typhoid fever
Return from a trip from a place where typhoid illness is widespread
Come in contact with infected people
Are on treatment and need to know the treatment efficacy
Test preparation
No special preparation is required to take typhidot IgM test.
Please talk to your healthcare provider if you are on any medications or supplements before taking the test
Interpretation of the Test Results
The test results of typhidot IgM test are available as either positive or negative.
Positive test results – These indicate the presence of IgM antibodies in an individual’s blood, which signifies a recent or active infection by Salmonella typhi.
Negative test results – These indicate the absence of IgM antibodies in an individual’s blood, which means the individual was not infected with Salmonella typhi
FAQs
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for Typhidot IgM test?
The typhidot IgM test results are usually available within 1 – 2 working days after the sample collection. However, it can also take a little longer at times
What is the procedure involved in sample collection during typhidot IgM test?
A healthcare professional inserts a small needle into a vein in the arm to collect a few mL of blood sample in a sterile test tube. For easy collection of the blood sample, he may tie an elastic band to your upper arm or may ask you to make a fist
Are there any risks associated with Typhidot IgM test?
No, there are no potential risks associated with typhidot IgM test. It is a simple blood test and may involve negligible risks such as feeling a slight sting or a bruise at the site of needle insertion. It usually resolves within a few minutes to a couple of hours. Rarely, the site can also become infected
Can the test results be false-negative?
Yes, when the test is performed before the antibodies are generated, false-negative results may occur. After initial infection with Salmonella typhi bacteria, it normally takes about 1 to 2 weeks for antibodies to be developed. Any test performed prior to this time period may yield false-negative test results
What are the preventive measures that can be taken to avoid getting typhoid fever?
Typhoid fever can be prevented by taking precautions with food and drinks that one consumes. All food items and drinks should be consumed only when they are fresh and not contaminated. Maintaining hygiene helps prevent the disease to a great extent. In addition, vaccination also helps in preventing the disease