Fever & Infection Panel

Description

Overview & Clinical Purpose

The Fever & Infection Panel is a comprehensive diagnostic screening designed to investigate acute or persistent fevers of unknown origin (FUO). Because symptoms like high body temperature, chills, body aches, and fatigue can overlap across vastly different illnesses, this panel casts a wide diagnostic net.

By evaluating cellular response, inflammatory markers, and pathogen-specific antigens simultaneously, this package enables clinicians to differentiate between viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections—allowing for rapid, targeted treatment without trial-and-error prescribing.

What’s Included in the Panel

A standard, comprehensive Fever Profile groups tests into three distinct diagnostic tiers:

1. Baseline Cellular & Inflammatory Response

These tests determine the severity of the infection and whether the body is fighting a viral or bacterial invader.

• Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential: Evaluates total white blood cells (WBCs), red blood cells, and platelets. Elevated neutrophils typically suggest a bacterial infection, while high lymphocytes often point to a viral origin.

• Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): Measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube; an elevated rate indicates systemic inflammation.

• C-Reactive Protein (CRP) – Quantitative: A sensitive acute-phase liver protein that surges rapidly in response to severe inflammation or bacterial infection.

2. Pathogen-Specific Antigen & Antibody Screenings

These targeted immunoassays confirm or rule out the most common regional vector-borne and water-borne illnesses.

• Dengue Profile (NS1 Antigen + IgM/IgG Antibodies): Detects early-stage dengue virus (NS1 is detectable within days 1–5 of symptom onset) and immune system antibody responses (IgM/IgG for late-stage or past exposure).

• Malaria Antigen (Vivax & Falciparum) + Peripheral Blood Smear: Screens for Plasmodium parasites in the bloodstream to differentiate between benign and severe malarial strains.

• Widal Test (or TyphiDot): Evaluates agglutinating antibodies against Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi to screen for typhoid fever.

3. Secondary & Opportunistic Infection Screening

• Urine Routine & Microscopy (R/M): Checks for leukocytes, nitrites, and microscopic hematuria (blood in urine) to rule out urinary tract infections (UTIs) as the underlying cause of the fever.

Quick Reference Table for Patients

Patient Preparation & Specimen Details

• Sample Type: Whole Blood (EDTA & Serum) + Mid-stream Spot Urine.

• Fasting Requirement: No strict fasting is required; however, drawing blood in the morning after a light meal is recommended unless fasting blood sugar is co-ordered.

• Turnaround Time (TAT): 6 to 12 hours (Same-day reporting ensures timely clinical intervention).

• When to Get Tested: Recommended when a fever exceeds 100.4°F (38°C) and persists for more than 48–72 hours, especially when accompanied by severe headaches, joint pain, shivering, or abdominal discomfort.

Digital Platform & SEO Metadata

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