Scrub Typhus Antibody

Key Details for Scrub Typhus IgM Test

• Purpose: To diagnose current acute scrub typhus infection.
• Method: Detects IgM antibodies in the serum (blood) using ELISA (preferred for accuracy) or rapid Immunochromatographic Card test.
• When to Test: Antibodies typically appear within a week after symptoms begin, peaking around 4 weeks.
• Symptoms: High fever, rash, body pains, severe headache, and sometimes a characteristic black, crusty sore (eschar).
• Sample Type: A blood sample is collected from a vein (usually arm).

What is Scrub Typhus?

Scrub typhus is a disease caused by bacteria spread by microscopic, larval mites (chiggers) found in rural or forested areas. It is endemic to parts of Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Africa.

Key Aspects of the Test:

• Purpose: To detect IgG antibodies, which are indicative of a past infection or the later stages of a current infection.
• Methodology: Typically performed as a rapid, qualitative immunochromatographic card test or via ELISA.
• Sample Type: Requires a blood sample (serum, plasma, or whole blood).
• Significance: While IgM suggests acute infection, IgG helps establish exposure history.

When to Test:

Tests are indicated when symptoms like high fever, headache, body aches, and characteristic black scab-like spots (eschar) appear, often after travel to endemic rural areas.