Saudi Journal of Pathology and Microbiology (SJPM)
Volume-2 | Issue-01 | 10-12
Original Research Article
Screening of Dengue Fever in Clinically Suspected Cases in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, South India
M. Shabnum, P. Sreenivasulu Reddy, P. Vasundhara Devi
Published : Jan. 31, 2017
Abstract
Dengue fever is one of the most serious mosquito- borne Arboviral infections affecting tropical and
subtropical countries in the world. Due to lack of immune prophylaxis and specific anti-viral therapy, outbreaks occur
almost every year. There is a need for rapid diagnosis to prevent morbidity and mortality. The study was conducted to
know the seroprevalance of dengue virus in a tertiary care hospital, Nellore. Blood samples received in microbiology
laboratory from suspected dengue cases during June 2015 to October 2015 were serologically analyzed. NS1 Antigen,
IgG and IgM antibodies were detected employing Dengue Day 1 Test kit (J.Mitra & Co. Pvt Ltd) by solid phase
immunochromatographic method. Among the samples collected, 88.69% were positive for NS1 antigen, 3.41% for IgM
and 2.77% for IgG. Thrombocytopenia was observed in 71.42% cases, highest being in those positive for NS1 antigen
only (301 cases). Combination of antigen and antibody assays on single serum sample, ease and time taken by
Immunochromatography test makes it preferable test of choice for making a reliable diagnosis.