Weil Felix Test
Short Name: Weil Felix Test
Also known as: Weil-Felix Reaction, Proteus Agglutination Test, Rickettsial Fever Serology
Weil Felix Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹983. Uses Latex Agglutination on Serum samples. Results in Samples received by 3:30 pm are reported the next day.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
This test detects infection due to Rickettsial organisms. Rickettsiae are fastidious bacterial organisms maintained in nature through a cycle involving animal reservoirs and insect vectors. A four-fold rise in antibody titre between paired serum samples is considered diagnostic of infection.
- Test Code
- 3755
- Price
- ₹983
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Samples received by 3:30 pm are reported the next day.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Latex Agglutination
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. Fasting is not needed.
Method: Blood draw by venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle. Inform the phlebotomist if you have a bleeding disorder or a history of fainting.
Report Delivery
Apply firm pressure on the puncture site for 1 to 2 minutes. You may resume normal activities immediately.
Timeline: Samples received by 3:30 pm are reported the next day.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
This test detects infection due to Rickettsial organisms. Rickettsiae are fastidious bacterial organisms maintained in nature through a cycle involving animal reservoirs and insect vectors. A four-fold rise in antibody titre between paired serum samples is considered diagnostic of infection.
How to Prepare
- Collect blood in a serum separator tube (SST).
- Allow the blood to clot before centrifugation.
- Separate the serum and ship refrigerated or frozen.
- Label the sample with patient name and collection date.
- Send the sample with the request form and physician details.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Infectious disease specialists use the Weil Felix test as a supportive tool. A four-fold rise in titre between paired sera is more informative than a single value. Clinical correlation remains essential, as cross-reactions may occur."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Grossly hemolyzed sample
- Improperly labeled or unlabeled sample
- Sample received after expiry of stability
- Incomplete requisition form
- Sample collected in a wrong container
Understanding Your Results
Negative
Positive / Elevated titre
Four-fold rise in paired sera
Consult a doctor immediately if you develop fever with headache, muscle pain, rash, vomiting, joint pain, or confusion. The Weil Felix test should always be interpreted alongside clinical features and, if needed, confirmatory testing.
Limitations
- ⚠Not species-specific and cannot differentiate between all rickettsial organisms
- ⚠May be negative in early disease or after early antibiotic treatment
- ⚠Cross-reactions with Proteus infections and other conditions may cause false positives
- ⚠A single acute sample is not sufficient; paired acute and convalescent sera are preferred
- ⚠Should not be used as the sole basis for diagnosis
Risks & Considerations
- ●Slight pain or discomfort during needle insertion
- ●Small bruise or swelling at the puncture site
- ●Dizziness or lightheadedness
- ●Rare risk of infection at the puncture site
Interfering Factors
- ●Antibiotic therapy before sample collection
- ●Presence of cross-reacting antibodies from Proteus infections
- ●Very early stage of infection with low antibody titre
- ●Hemolyzed, lipemic, or contaminated serum
- ●Immunosuppressive conditions or drugs
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Weil Felix Test Test | Weil Felix Test | Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) | PCR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Weil Felix Test Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
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