Typhidot / Salmonella Typhi IgG Test: Booking, Price, and Results

This test looks for a specific type of antibody that the immune system produces in response to Salmonella typhi infection. Here is what the result indicates:

IgG (Immunoglobulin G) antibodies typically appear later in the course of infection and can remain detectable in the blood for 12 months or more after the illness. A positive IgG result may reflect a previous infection, re-infection, or prior vaccination. Results are reported as either positive or negative, as there is no standardised numerical cut-off used globally.

Preparation for this test is straightforward, and no major lifestyle changes are needed beforehand.

Do You Need to Fast?

No fasting is required before the Typhidot / Salmonella Typhi IgG test. You can eat and drink normally on the day of collection.

Practical Tips Before Your Test

Keep the following points in mind before your sample is collected:

• Bring a detailed clinical history including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant medical records, as this is required for the test.
• Inform your doctor or the collection staff about all medications and supplements you are currently taking, as some may need to be paused beforehand.
• Let the healthcare provider know if you have received a typhoid vaccine in the past.
• Mention any recent international travel or contact with a person diagnosed with typhoid.
• For the most accurate result, the test is best done at least 3 days after fever begins, as this allows enough time for antibodies to develop.

Step-by-Step Procedure

The sample collection is a simple blood draw that takes only a few minutes. Here is what happens:

1. A trained phlebotomist locates a suitable vein in your arm and cleans the area with an antiseptic solution.
2. A tourniquet is tied around the upper arm to make the vein easier to access.
3. A small needle is inserted and about 3 ml of blood is drawn into a collection tube.
4. The needle is removed and a small bandage or cotton swab is placed over the puncture site.
5. The blood sample is processed to separate the serum, which is then stored under refrigeration (2 to 8°C) before dispatch to the laboratory.
6. The serum is tested using the immunochromatography method, and your report is prepared within 1 day.

Factors That Can Affect Accuracy

Several factors may influence your test result:

• Testing too early in the infection, before the body has produced detectable antibodies
• Prior use of antibiotics, which may reduce antibody production and lead to a false negative result
• A weakened immune system, which may delay or reduce antibody response
• Previous typhoid vaccination, which can cause a positive IgG result even without current infection
• Cross-reactivity with other Salmonella species or infections such as malaria, which may produce false positive results

These general wellness habits can help reduce the risk of typhoid infection:

• Drink only safe, clean water and eat properly cooked food, particularly when travelling.
• Practise regular hand hygiene, especially before meals and after using the toilet.
• Consider typhoid vaccination if you are travelling to or living in an area where typhoid is common.