📌 What is the JEV IgM Test?
A serological test that detects IgM antibodies against the Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) in blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause brain inflammation (encephalitis).
IgM antibodies indicate a recent or active infection with JEV.
🎯 Purpose of the Test
✅ Diagnoses Japanese Encephalitis (JE) in symptomatic patients.
✅ Detects recent JEV exposure (IgM appears within 3-8 days of infection).
✅ Helps differentiate JE from other viral or bacterial brain infections.
📊 Normal Ranges & Interpretation
🔹 Normal Result: No detectable JEV IgM (Negative result).
🔹 Abnormal Result: Detectable JEV IgM (Positive result), indicating a recent or active JEV infection.
📝 Test Procedure
1️⃣ A blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample is collected.
2️⃣ The sample is analyzed using ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) to detect JEV IgM antibodies.
3️⃣ Results help confirm recent exposure or infection.
⚠️ Who Should Get Tested?
🔹 Patients with symptoms of JE, including:
High fever, headache, nausea
Seizures, confusion, muscle weakness
Coma in severe cases
🔹 People in or returning from JEV-endemic areas (Southeast Asia, Western Pacific).
🔹 Individuals with unexplained neurological symptoms and mosquito exposure.
✅ Why is This Test Important?
✔️ Early detection allows for better symptom management.
✔️ Helps prevent serious complications like brain inflammation, paralysis, or death.
✔️ Aids in public health monitoring and outbreak control.