Dengue fever is a mosquito borne illness caused by dengue virus. It is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito (Aedes aegypti). Dengue is common in tropical and subtropical regions, especially during and after the rainy season. 

Dengue is a significant health concern in India, according to reports, India reported around 2,30,000 dengue cases and 236 related fatalities. 

Early detection and treatment are the key to preventing severe complications like dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS).

Dengue IgM Positive Results: What You Need to Know

Dengue is a condition known to cause symptoms that can be mistaken for other illnesses including flu or other viral infections (fever,  headache (types of headache, causes, symtoms & treatment), muscle pain, rash, etc.). Dengue IgM is a test that helps identify and differentiate other conditions that mimic similar symptoms of dengue. 

When a person gets bitten by an infected mosquito, the immune system (tips to boost immune system) in the body produces IgM antibodies in response to the dengue virus infection. A positive dengue IgM test helps identify a recent or current dengue infection. The test helps accurately detect dengue from other illnesses for early detection and treatment. 

The antibodies typically appear 3 to 5 days after the onset of symptoms. A negative test result for IgM antibodies indicates the patient does not have dengue or the antibody level is too low to be measured. 

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Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis is crucial as it significantly improves patient outcomes by reducing the risk of severe complications and preventing spread. Dengue IgM tests help identify the condition early. The role of early diagnosis includes:

 

Prevention	Advantage of Early Detection
Prevents complications	Prevents severe forms like DHF, DSS dehydration & organ failure
Symptom Management	Monitoring of platelet levels, ensuring hydration, avoiding NSAIDs
Controls Spread	Helps with breaking the transmission cycle & protect others from it
Reduces Hospitalisation Risk	Minimises the need for hospitalisation & allows for recovery at home

 

Dengue Virus Serotypes

Dengue virus serotypes are of 4 types, named:

• DEN-1
• DEN-2
• DEN-3
• DEN-4

These serotypes are closely related but have different interactions with antibodies in the blood. All the 4 dengue viruses are the same and share approximately 65% of their genomes but with some genetic variation. These variations result in a range of symptoms. 

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Impact of Different Serotypes on Infection Severity

The serotypes vary with their severity trend, the DEN-1 type is associated with mild to moderate condition, DEN-2 often associated with more severe disease, DEN-3 can cause large outbreaks, and DEN-4 is generally considered milder. 

Symptoms of Dengue Infection

• Sudden High Fever: High fever (causes, symtoms & treatment of fever) is one of the primary signs of dengue, usually up to 104°F. 
• Headache: Severe headache is often accompanied by pain behind the eyes. 
• Muscle & Joint Pain: Muscle & joint pain (musculoskeletal pain types, causes & treatment) is common in dengue, it is also sometimes referred to as breakbone fever. 
• Nausea & Vomiting: Dengue may also make people feel sick to their stomach and may vomit occasionally.
• Mild Bleeding: Mild bleeding from gums, nose, or easy bruising, etc. is a sign of dengue resulting from low platelets count. 
• Extreme Fatigue or Drowsiness: This is usually associated with severe dengue and signals a serious drop in platelets. 
• Shock: Also referred to as dengue shock syndrome (DSS) resulting from a rapid drop in blood pressure and leakage of fluid from blood vessels. 
• Stomach Pain: Stomach pain is also associated with severe dengue and indicates internal bleeding or fluid leakage in the abdomen.

Diagnostic Tests for Dengue Fever

The diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory testing. The doctor may ask about symptoms, and travel history, and consider & rule out other diseases which can mimic the same symptoms. Further, the doctor may recommend certain tests including, a complete blood test (CBC), serological test, antigen test, etc.

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Role of IgM in Diagnosis

The body’s immune system produces IgM (Immunoglobulin M antibodies) in response to dengue (Dengue Fever-Symptoms, Causes & Treatment) virus infection. The antibodies are detectable in the blood after a few days of infection. Dengue IgM plays a key role in diagnosis including:

• Helps with Early Detection: IgM antibodies usually are detectable within 3 to 5 days of infection, thus making diagnosis easy and quick.
• Distinguishes Primary & Secondary Infections: The presence of IgM, along with IgG (Immunoglobulin G antibodies) helps differentiate between primary & secondary dengue infection.

The Process Involves:

• Blood Collection: A specialist inserts a needle in the vein to take blood for a sample.  
• Processing & Analysis: Post sample collection, the same is sent to a lab for analysis.
• Results: The test results are usually available within a few hours or days. 

Interpreting Dengue IgM Positive Results

• Negative Results: A negative IgM result indicates that no antibodies were found in the blood sample. Negative test result indicates that either the person has not been infected with the dengue virus or the test was performed too early for the antibodies to be developed. 
• Positive Results: A positive IgM result indicated an active or recent dengue infection. The presence of IgM antibodies in the blood indicates the immune system in the body is trying to fight the virus. Additionally, a high level of IgM antibodies in the blood indicates a robust immune response, indicating a stronger infection.

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Meaning of a Positive IgM Test

IgM antibodies are usually the first line of defence produced by the body to fight against the infection. These antibodies typically appear 3 to 5 days after symptom onset.  A positive result indicates a recent or current dengue infection. IgM test plays a key role in the identification of dengue in the acute phase (first 2 weeks) which can further lead to better treatment outcomes and prevent complications. The IgM antibodies remain positive for 1 to 3 months after recovery.  Additionally, the best time for the test is around 4 – 5 days after the onset of symptoms.

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Dengue IgM Positive Treatment

There are no specific antiviral medications for dengue. The treatment options focus on managing symptoms and supporting the body’s natural recovery process. Symptomatic and supportive care for the treatment of dengue involves:

• Rest & Hydration: Take adequate rest and hydration to support the body with natural recovery.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications can help manage fever, headache, pain, etc.
• Intravenous Fluid: Intravenous fluids can help maintain fluid balance and prevent severe complications like shock syndrome. 
• Hospitalisation: Hospitalisation is recommended in cases particularly those with dengue hemorrhagic fever, dengue shock syndrome or very low platelet count. 

Preventive Measures for Dengue

Measures	Description
Avoid Mosquito Bites	Use mosquito repellent & wear long-sleeved clothes.
Eliminate Stagnant Water	Empty coolers, flower pots, containers, etc.
Use Mosquito Net	Use mosquito nets, especially in areas where dengue is common.
Seek Early Consultation	If suspecting dengue, get medical attention promptly.

 

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Conclusion

A large population suffers dengue in India every year. The condition is on the rise and requires prompt action. From prevention to early treatment, seeking early intervention is the key.  Given the nature of dengue symptoms that are similar to those of other conditions, the dengue IgM test helps identify the condition accurately. Additionally one must take steps to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and keep an eye out for severe signs of dengue. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India, clinical trials for the dengue vaccine have been initiated in India. At the same time, dengue vaccine Qdenga is to be licensed in India by 2026. 

FAQs

What test is done for dengue?

Various types of tests are done for diagnosing dengue including, blood test, antigen test, IgM, IgG test, and more. 

Dengue NS1 positive means?

Dengue NS1 positive means dengue virus is currently present in the body. 

Is high IgM serious?

High IgM indicates increased susceptibility to infection.