FEVER SCREEN 2

Fever Screen 2

What it is

The Fever Screen 2 panel is an extended diagnostic package that helps identify common infectious causes of acute or persistent fever. It goes beyond the basic fever screen by including additional tests for broader evaluation of tropical and seasonal illnesses, enabling more accurate and timely diagnosis.

Uses

This panel is recommended for patients with unexplained fever when a wider range of infections must be considered. Depending on the laboratory, Fever Screen 2 may include:

• Dengue NS1 Antigen / IgM / IgG: Detects early and later stages of dengue virus infection.
• Malaria Antigen (Rapid Test or Peripheral Smear): Identifies Plasmodium falciparum and vivax parasites.
• Typhoid IgM (or Widal Test): Screens for Salmonella typhi infection.
• Chikungunya IgM: Detects chikungunya virus infection.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates platelets, hemoglobin, and white blood cells.
• C-Reactive Protein (CRP) or ESR: Measures inflammation and infection severity.

Symptoms That May Lead to the Test

This panel is useful if you present with fever accompanied by chills, severe headache, muscle or joint pain, rash, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weakness, or bleeding tendencies. It is especially valuable during seasonal outbreaks where multiple infections circulate together.

Abnormal Results

Positive Dengue, Malaria, Typhoid, or Chikungunya Tests: Confirms the infection causing fever and directs treatment.

Low Platelets (CBC): Suggests dengue or malaria complications.

High WBC or CRP/ESR: Indicates bacterial infection or systemic inflammation.

Negative Results: Suggest the need for further advanced fever panels or other diagnostic tests.

Risks

The test requires a routine blood draw. Risks are minimal and may include slight pain, bruising, or dizziness at the puncture site. These are temporary and uncommon.