FEVER PANEL BASIC-PLUS

Fever Panel Basic – Plus

What it is

The Fever Panel Basic – Plus is an upgraded diagnostic package that screens for the most common infectious causes of fever along with additional supportive tests. It provides a broader evaluation than the basic or mini panels, making it useful for patients with persistent or unexplained fever.

Uses

This panel is designed to quickly identify key infections and assess overall health status during a fever episode. While the exact composition may vary by laboratory, the Basic – Plus panel usually includes:

• Dengue NS1 Antigen / IgM / IgG: For early and late detection of dengue infection.
• Malaria Antigen (Rapid or Peripheral Smear): Detects Plasmodium parasites causing malaria.
• Typhoid IgM / Widal Test: Screens for Salmonella typhi infection.
• Chikungunya IgM (in some labs): Detects chikungunya viral infection.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates hemoglobin, white blood cells, and platelet counts—important in dengue and malaria.
• C-Reactive Protein (CRP) or ESR: Helps assess inflammation or infection severity.

Symptoms That May Lead to the Test

This panel is recommended if you present with fever along with chills, severe headache, rash, joint pain, body ache, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, or unexplained weakness. It is especially relevant in tropical and endemic areas where multiple fever-causing infections coexist.

Abnormal Results

Positive Dengue, Malaria, Typhoid, or Chikungunya Tests: Confirm the specific infection and guide targeted treatment.

Low Platelets or Abnormal CBC: Suggests dengue, malaria, or another infection affecting blood counts.

Elevated CRP/ESR: Indicates systemic inflammation or bacterial infection.

Risks

The panel requires a routine blood draw. Risks are minimal, including slight discomfort, bruising, or dizziness at the puncture site. These are temporary and uncommon.