What is a Fever Panel Test?
A fever panel test refers to a number of diagnostic tests that are done to identify the cause behind fever and other symptoms. It often consists of blood and urine tests that aim to diagnose the conditions such as malaria, dengue or typhoid that may be the underlying cause of fever.
Using the result of the fever test, the doctors are able to take further steps to stop or prevent the progression of the disease.
Which tests are included in a Fever Panel test?
A fever profile test may include more than one test. Here is a list of lab tests
that are generally included in a fever panel.
Complete Haemogram (CBC+ESR)
Dengue Antigen NS1
Dengue IgG & IgM
Peripheral Smear for Malaria
Urine Routine Examination
These fever profile tests and its price may vary from one diagnostic centre to another. Check the details thoroughly before booking an appointment.
Why do I need a Fever Panel Test?
You may need a fever test for the following reasons:
A fever test helps you in detecting serious illnesses like malaria, dengue or typhoid.
Early detection of malaria or dengue through fever profile further helps in timely treatment and recovery.
If you treat a serious health condition like malaria on time, you can save the extra expenditure required for treatment at advanced stages of the disease.
When do I need to get a Fever Panel test done?
You should opt for a fever profile test if you are experiencing the following symptoms for more than two days:
Fever and chills
Diarrhea or loose motions
How do I prepare for a Fever Panel test?
There is no specific preparation that you need to follow before a fever profile test. Some things you can take in case you have booked a slot for home sample are:
Buy a sterile bottle for a urine sample and keep it away from children’s reach.
Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 8-10 hours prior to the blood test. You may, however, drink water to avoid dehydration.
Inform your doctor if you are taking any medicine beforehand.
How does Fever Panel at home work?
Fever profile test at home are easy and hassle free. You can book a slot for the required tests. Here is what you can expect:
Trained professionals will come to your home to get blood and urine samples along with a temperature check for a fever test.
The samples will be tested at certified labs and digital reports will be sent via mail.
You can also consult a doctor
if there is any concern in the fever profile reports.
Are there any Risks/Side effects of Fever Panel test?
There is no risk or side effects of fever panel tests.
What does my result mean?
Since a fever test includes a number of tests, there is no single result that you can expect. Each test has different parameters to interpret the results. Here is the test result of dengue test and its interpretations:
Dengue IgG & IgM
Low or negative or not tested
Four-fold increase in samples taken 2-4 weeks apart
Low or Negative
No infection or too soon after the exposure
To know more about the fever test and their result interpretation, it is always best to seek consultation from health experts.