Understanding Widal Test and Fever Panel Test: Purpose, Importance and Procedure

Fever is one of the most common symptoms of infectious diseases, which can often present with similar signs. Accurate diagnosis is crucial to identify the underlying cause and ensure timely treatment. Two common diagnostic approaches include the Widal test and the Fever panel test. These tests help identify the root cause of fever and guide doctors in initiating appropriate treatment.

While the Widal test is used to detect typhoid fever, the fever panel test is a broader screening method that checks for multiple infections such as dengue, malaria, and urinary tract infections. Understanding the purpose, importance, and procedure of each test helps clarify their role in modern clinical practice.

Widal Test

Purpose

● Detects antibodies (O and H antigens) against Salmonella typhi and Salmonella paratyphi.

● Assists in diagnosing typhoid and paratyphoid fever.

● Used as a supportive tool when typhoid is suspected.

Importance

● Useful in identifying the body's immune response after the first week of infection.

● Supports diagnosis in cases of prolonged or undiagnosed fever.

● Often used in settings where blood culture is not immediately available.

Procedure

● A blood sample is collected from the patient.

● The test measures levels of O (somatic) and H (flagellar) antibodies.

● Two samples may be tested over 7-10 days to observe rising titers.

● Results are expressed as dilutions (e.g., 1:80 or 1:160).

● No fasting is required before the test.

Fever Panel Test

Purpose

● Aims to determine the underlying cause of fever by combining multiple diagnostic tests.

● Screens for common infections such as malaria, dengue, typhoid, and urinary tract infections.

● Helps physicians make quick, accurate clinical decisions.

Importance

● Offers a comprehensive diagnostic approach in cases of undiagnosed or persistent fever.

● Saves time by combining tests into a single panel.

● Particularly useful during monsoon or outbreak seasons when multiple infections circulate.

● Helps differentiate between bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections.


Procedure

● Blood and sometimes urine samples are collected.

● A typical fever panel may include:

     ○ Complete Blood Count (CBC)

     ○ Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

     ○ C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

     ○ Malaria Antigen Test

     ○ Dengue NS1 Antigen and IgM/IgG

     ○ Widal Test or Typhidot

     ○ Liver Enzymes (SGOT, SGPT)

     ○ Urine Routine and Culture

● Results are generally available within 24-48 hours.

● No special preparation or fasting is usually required.

These tests offer valuable support in identifying the root cause of persistent or unexplained fever. While the Widal test helps detect typhoid infection through antibody presence, the Fever panel test provides a more comprehensive view of possible infections. When used together with clinical evaluation, these tests empower healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and help patients recover with confidence and care.

In addition to the Widal test and fever panel test, a comprehensive health evaluation helps assess the overall impact of infection on the body. Many diagnostic centres offer complete screening packages, making it easier for patients to compare the Full Body Checkup Price in Hyderabad and choose a suitable option based on their health needs and budget. Regular full body checkups support early diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and long-term health monitoring.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

A Comprehensive Look at the Double Marker Test During Pregnancy

Image
Double marker test is a prenatal test recommended for women during pregnancy. The test checks for any genetic disorder or risk for certain birth defects in the unborn child.  A double marker test in pregnancy , is conducted during the first trimester and analyses two specific substances for chromosomal abnormalities.  Women over the age of 35 and having a history of birth defects should consider getting a dual marker test. Levels of substances can help identify the risk of certain birth defects, like Down syndrome. Types of Pregnancy Hormones Measured A double marker test includes a blood sample and an ultrasound. The blood sample is taken to look for two hormones—the free beta human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A). An ultrasound called a nuchal translucency (NT) scan, examining the clear tissue at the back of the baby’s neck.  Timing of Tests  There is a relatively slim window for conducting the dual marker test. ...
Read more

A Brief Introduction to CBC Test: Meaning, Purpose, and Procedure

Image
A complete blood count (CBC) test is a common blood test to measure and analyse an individual's health. A CBC test is part of a full-body health check-up by trusted medical laboratories. It provides proper information about various blood components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, haemoglobin, and haematocrit. The doctor prescribes this test for several reasons, such as the detection of conditions, disorders, and infections. Top medical laboratories conduct CBC blood tests at an affordable cost . Why is a CBC Test Required? The CBC test is required to check an individual's overall health and well-being. If one has symptoms like fever, fatigue, bleeding, or weakness, the doctor may order a CBC test. It tells the doctor about the level of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and other blood components. The medical professional analyses the blood components to check for infections or diseases. Along with this, CBC test results can also help d...
Read more

What You Should Know About the Thyroid Antibodies Test

Image
A thyroid antibody test is a blood test that measures the amount of thyroid antibodies present in the blood. While normally, the production of antibodies is the body’s way of fighting infection, bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances, in rare cases, the immune system ends up producing antibodies that attack healthy parts of the body, a condition known as autoimmune disease. When these antibodies attack healthy thyroid cells, they can damage thyroid tissues, impacting the normal functioning of the thyroid gland.  Different Types of Thyroid Antibodies Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb): These antibodies can indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) caused due to a condition known as Hashimoto’s disease. Thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb): These antibodies can be a sign of Hashimoto’s disease. Thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAb): These antibodies bind to the TSH receptor on thyroid cells, stimulating the gland to produce excess thyroid hormones. They are the primar...
Read more