Typhidot igm Positive: Meaning, Procedure, Preparation

What is a Typhidot test?

A typhidot is a serological diagnostic test that checks for antibodies in the blood sample. It is a ready-to-use ELISA-based dot kit that analyzes and detects the presence of immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies produced in response to the bacterium known as Salmonella typhi. 

Typhoid is a very common bacterial infection that is fully spread through contaminated water or food. Regretfully, once the Salmonella bacteria are injected, they intensify and spread into the bloodstream. 

6 most common symptoms for the Typhidot test: 

1. Prolonged high temperature
2. Chronic cough
3. Extreme tiredness
4. Discomfort and muscular pain
5. Headache
6. Excessive sweating
7. Irregular bowel movements
8. Loss of appetite 

Let’s discover the Typhidot IgM test in detail. 

Typhidot IgM test

Typhidot IgM test checks for the presence of IgM antibodies in the blood. These antibodies usually develop within 1-2 weeks of the infection. The IgM positive means the Salmonella virus is active, and you are currently infected. 

The normal range for a Typhidot IgM is 0.4-2.5 g/L 

Also Read: https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/food-creative/typhoid-diet-chart-food-to-eat-and-avoid/

Purpose of the Typhidot IgM test

The purpose of the Typhidot IgM test is to detect acute typhoid fever. It is a diagnostic tool that performs various functions, which are as follows: 

1. Detects the presence of recent infection: The Typhidot IgM test helps detect recent infection. IgM is the first antibody produced in response to an infection, indicating a current infection with Salmonella typhi.
2. Early, accurate diagnosis: The test detects fever within a few days of symptom onset, usually before antibodies are detected through other tests like the Widal test. 
3. Differentiate between acute and chronic typhoid: The IgM antibodies stay short, indicating an acute or recent infection rather than chronic or past exposure.
4. Minimally invasive: Compared to other diagnostic methods, like bone marrow aspiration, IgM testing is less invasive, which makes it convenient for patients.
5. Monitor treatment efficacy: After starting treatment for typhoid fever, the IgM levels can help track how the body responds to the treatment, indicating if the infection is managed effectively. 
6. Highly suitable in areas with high typhoid prevalence: The Typhidot IgM test is the most appropriate method in areas with high typhoid prevalence. It aids in early and accurate diagnosis in endemic areas, and isolation can prevent spread. 

Difference between Typhidot IgM and IgG tests

Here is a table showing the difference between the Typhidot IgM and IgG tests: 

Purpose	Timing	Indication	Clinical Use
Typhidot IgM	Detects the presence of IgM antibodies	These antibodies typically first appear within 4-5 days of symptoms.	A positive Typhidot IgM test result indicates an acute or recent infection with S.typhi.	It is useful in diagnosing a current typhoid infection in its early stages.
Typhidot IgG test	Detects the presence of IgG antibodies in response to S.typhi.	IgG antibodies develop later, typically appearing 7-10 days after infection.	A positive Typhidot IgG test result may indicate a past infection but may no longer have an active infection.	It helps assess past exposure to typhoid but is less reliable for diagnosing a current infection.

What does the Typhidot IgM positive mean?

A Typhidot IgM positive result indicates the IgM antibodies specific to the Salmonella Typhi bacterium have been detected in the blood. This means an active or recent infection with typhoid fever. Here is a breakdown of the Typhidot-positive IgM: 

• Recent or ongoing infection: IgM antibodies suggest that your immune system is currently fighting a recent or ongoing Salmonella typhi infection. 
• Early stages of Typhoid Fever: A positive Typhidot IgM test result often reflects the early stage of typhoid fever, usually within the first week of symptoms.
• Need for Prompt Treatment: A Typhidot IgM positive result indicates immediate medical attention and treatment. If Typhoid fever is left untreated, it can lead to complications. 

What is the procedure for a Typhidot IgM test?

The procedure of the Typhidot IgM test is simple. It checks for the presence of IgM antibodies in the blood. Hence, a doctor may suggest a blood test to check for an infection. 

A small amount of blood will be drawn from a vein in your arm with the help of a needle. However, before doing that, he will tie a tourniquet band around your upper arm to make the blood draw easier. Also, he will clean the site with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection. 

Once the blood is drawn, he will transfer it into a vacutainer tube, label it with your name, and send it to the laboratory for analysis. 

How can you prepare for the Typhidot IgM test?

Here is how you can prepare for the Typhidot IgM test: 

1. No fasting is required: A Typhidot IgM test can also be performed without fasting. This means you can eat and drink normally unless your doctor suggests otherwise. 
2. Antibiotics may influence your results. If you take over-the-counter medicines or antibiotics, inform your doctor before the test. These medicines may affect test results. 
3. Stay Hydrated: Sometimes, it is challenging for the expert to draw blood. So, drink plenty of water before the test to help locate veins and thus make blood drawing easier. 
4. Avoid strenuous exercise: Avoid intense physical activity at least 24 hours before the Typhidot IgM blood test. Physical activity may cause hormonal fluctuations. 
5. No alcohol consumption: Drinking before the test might temporarily affect blood chemistry. Therefore, it should be avoided. 

Factors that can affect the Typhidot IgM Test Results

Below are factors that can affect the accuracy and reliability of the Typhidot IgM test: 

• Timing of the test: Performing the IgM test too early (within the 2-3 days of symptoms onset) and testing later (after a week) can potentially lead to a false negative.
• Immune system response: People with weak immune systems may produce lower levels of antibodies, resulting in false negatives. 
• Cross-reactivity with other infections: Bacterial infections such as Salmonella paratyphi may produce a false positive result. 
• Co-infections and chronic conditions: Other infections, such as dengue or hepatitis, may show antibody presence without acute infection. 
• Medications use: Taking antibiotics before the Typhidot IgM test can influence the IgM levels. 

Also read: https://redcliffelabs.com/delhi/tests/typhoid-test-igm

Book a Typhidot IgM blood test from Redcliffe Labs

Book an appointment for a Typhidot IgM blood test from Redcliffe Labs for INR 400 only. Enjoy the convenience of a home sample collection and accurate reports typically within 12 hours. 

Step-by-step instructions on how to book a blood test online from Redcliffe Labs! 

1. Go to the official Redcliffe Labs website: https://redcliffelabs.com/ 
2. Browse or search for the specific test you need. 
3. Add the test to the cart. 
4. Complete the payment process online.
5. You will receive confirmation through SMS and WhatsApp.

Conclusion

The Typhidot IgM test is an effective tool for early detection of acute typhoid fever. It allows for timely treatment and helps prevent complications. A blood test helps a doctor detect the presence of antibodies against the Salmonella typhi bacteria. 

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