Measles Antigen
Also known as Measles Antigen Pcr BloodWhat is this test?
Measles Antigen PCR Blood Test is used to detect the presence of measles viral antigen in the blood. This test helps to determine whether a person has measles infection or not.
What is Measles infection?
Measles or rubeola is an infection caused by viruses. This infection can spread from one person to another through contact with infected mucus or saliva and also by airborne droplets. This is very common in poorly nourished young children and individuals with poor immunity. Signs and symptoms of measles usually develop about 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. The signs and symptoms of measles are fever, headache, dry cough, weakness, runny nose, sore throat, tiny white spots in the mouth, rashes on face, chest and legs, itchy, red eyes, etc. Measles can lead to different complications such as pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, ear infection, decrease in platelet count in blood, blindness, severe diarrhea, etc.
Measles is usually diagnosed by checking the presence of the virus or its genetic material (DNA or RNA) and also by the presence of antibodies in the blood that forms in response to infection. The virus attaches to the cell membrane of the host individual and injects the genetic material (DNA or RNA) to start an infection. The virus gets matured within the cell and is released by rupture of the cell. The new viruses start attacking other cells and then multiplies. There is no specific treatment for measles, but the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine can prevent it. Taking a vaccination may prevent the disease.
Why this test is performed?
This test is performed to screen or diagnose the presence of measles infection. Your doctor may ask to perform this test if he suspects a measles infection or if you experience any signs and symptoms of measles such as fever, headache, dry cough, weakness, runny nose, sore throat, tiny white spots in the mouth, rashes on face, chest and legs, itchy, red eyes, etc. You may be advised to perform this test if you come in contact with a person with measles infection. It is an aid that helps in the diagnosis of measles infection.
Test Preparation
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Measles Antigen. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Measles Antigen.
No specific preparation is required for this test. However, follow all the instructions given by your healthcare provider.
Understanding your test results
The test results may vary depending on gender, age, health conditions, and other factors.
If the test result is positive or shows the presence of measles viral antigen in the blood, this may indicate that you are likely to have a measles infection.
If the test results are negative, it indicates that no measles viral antigen is found in the blood. Therefore you are very unlikely to have a measles infection.
Based on the test results, your doctor may advise appropriate medical treatments or further diagnostic tests.
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| UNISEX | All age groups | The antigen is detected in positive cases |