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DNA Labs India

Typhus Fever (Rickettsia) Antibodies IgG & IgM Test

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Typhus Fever (Rickettsia) Antibodies IgG & IgM Test

Short Name: Typhus Fever IgG/IgM

Also known as: Typhus Fever Serology, Rickettsia IgG & IgM Antibodies, Murine Typhus Antibody Test

Typhus Fever (Rickettsia) Antibodies IgG & IgM Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹13,000. Uses Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) on Serum samples. Results in Reports are available in 2–3 weeks after the sample reaches the reference laboratory. Samples must be submitted by the 7th of the month to meet the reporting schedule.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Serology / Immunofluorescence AssayAll age groups🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The primary purpose of this test is to detect and quantify IgG and IgM antibodies against the typhus group of Rickettsia species. It aids in the laboratory diagnosis of recent or past typhus infection, helps differentiate typhus from other febrile illnesses, and supports epidemiological investigations.

Test Code
3713
Price
₹13,000
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Reports are available in 2–3 weeks after the sample reaches the reference laboratory. Samples must be submitted by the 7th of the month to meet the reporting schedule.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
Step 1

Sample Collection

No fasting is required. Please ensure the Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is completely filled and signed before sample collection.

Method: Venipuncture (blood draw)

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm; the procedure takes less than five minutes.

Step 3

Report Delivery

You may resume normal activities immediately. No special precautions are needed after blood draw.

Timeline: Reports are available in 2–3 weeks after the sample reaches the reference laboratory. Samples must be submitted by the 7th of the month to meet the reporting schedule.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting required. Ensure the Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is completed.
2
During the Test:Our phlebotomist will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm.
3
After the Test:You can leave immediately. There are no post-test restrictions.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The primary purpose of this test is to detect and quantify IgG and IgM antibodies against the typhus group of Rickettsia species. It aids in the laboratory diagnosis of recent or past typhus infection, helps differentiate typhus from other febrile illnesses, and supports epidemiological investigations.

How to Prepare

  • Ensure the Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is duly filled and signed.
  • No fasting or special diet is required.
  • Sample must be collected in a serum separator tube (SST).
  • The sample should be transported refrigerated or frozen after collection.

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670

"IgM and IgG antibody patterns help determine whether the infection is recent or past, guiding clinicians in timely antimicrobial therapy. This test is an important tool in the diagnosis of typhus group rickettsial infections."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume2 mL (1 mL minimum)
ContainerSerum Separator Tube (SST)
Collection MethodVenipuncture (blood draw)

Sample Stability

Room Temperature8 hours
Refrigerated (2–8°C)14 days
Frozen (-20°C or lower)30 days
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed, lipemic, or contaminated sample
  • Improper labeling of sample
  • Missing or incomplete Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35)

Understanding Your Results

The detection of specific IgM and IgG antibodies to the typhus group rickettsiae provides serological evidence of infection. The titres should be interpreted in the context of clinical symptoms and exposure history.
📊

Indicates acute or recent infection, usually within the first few weeks of symptom onset.

📊

Suggests past infection or a later phase of the illness. A rising titre in paired samples may confirm active infection.

📊

Indicates a current or recent infection with the typhus group rickettsiae.

📊

Does not support a diagnosis of typhus fever, especially if the sample was collected very early. Consider repeat testing after 7–14 days if clinical suspicion remains high.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If you experience high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, or a rash, especially after exposure to fleas, lice, or ticks, or after travelling to typhus-endemic areas, consult a doctor promptly.

Limitations

  • IgM antibodies may not be detectable during the first week of infection
  • Test may not distinguish between Rickettsia typhi and Rickettsia prowazekii due to cross-reactivity
  • Immunocompromised patients may have delayed or absent antibody responses

Risks & Considerations

  • Mild bruising at the puncture site
  • Small chance of infection
  • Dizziness or fainting during blood draw

Interfering Factors

  • Rheumatoid factor may cause false-positive IgM results
  • Cross-reactivity with other rickettsial species
  • Recent vaccination or past infection may affect IgG levels

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Typhus Fever (Rickettsia) Antibodies IgG & IgM test?
It is a blood test that detects IgG and IgM antibodies against Rickettsia bacteria that cause typhus fever. The test helps confirm the diagnosis and differentiate it from other febrile illnesses.
Why is this test performed?
The test is performed when typhus fever is suspected based on symptoms like high fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash, especially after exposure to fleas, lice, or ticks or travel to endemic areas.
Is fasting required before the test?
No, fasting is not required for the Typhus Fever (Rickettsia) Antibodies IgG & IgM test. You can eat and drink normally before sample collection.
How is the blood sample collected?
A small amount of blood (2 mL) is drawn from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle. The sample is collected in a serum separator tube (SST).
How long does it take to get results?
Since this is a send-out test, reports are usually available within 2–3 weeks after the sample reaches the reference laboratory.
What does a positive IgM antibody result mean?
Positive IgM antibodies generally indicate a recent or acute infection, as IgM is produced early in the course of the disease.
What does a positive IgG antibody result mean?
Positive IgG antibodies indicate a past infection or later stage of the illness, as IgG develops several weeks after the initial infection.
Can this test distinguish between endemic and epidemic typhus?
The test identifies antibodies to the typhus group of rickettsiae, and may not definitively differentiate between Rickettsia typhi (endemic typhus) and Rickettsia prowazekii (epidemic typhus) due to cross-reactivity. Additional tests may be needed for species-specific diagnosis.
What is the cost of the Typhus Fever (Rickettsia) Antibodies IgG & IgM test in India?
The test costs INR 13,000 at DNA Labs India. The price includes free home sample collection for online bookings and is available across many cities in India.
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for online bookings of this test in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and many others.
How should the blood sample be stored before shipping?
The sample is stable at room temperature for 8 hours, refrigerated for 14 days, and frozen for up to 30 days. It should be shipped refrigerated or frozen.
Are there any risks associated with the blood test?
The risks are minimal and similar to a routine blood draw, including mild bruising, slight bleeding, or rare infection at the puncture site. Fainting may also occur but is uncommon.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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