What do dengue IgG and IgM mean?

IgM is an antibody that can appear during a recent immune response, while IgG can appear later and may remain after an earlier exposure. The exact timing varies, and a single blood sample may not settle whether symptoms are caused by a current dengue infection.

Clinicians compare the results with the day of illness, examination, other tests and symptoms such as fever, headache, chills, muscle aches and joint pain. A positive antibody result does not show how severe dengue is, and a negative result does not automatically explain away concerning symptoms.

Take the full report to a GP Consultation clinician and provide the date symptoms began, any previous dengue infection, travel history and medicines. The clinician may recommend repeat or additional testing. Rest, drink fluids if able, use advised fever relief and avoid aspirin or ibuprofen unless specifically instructed. Prevent mosquito bites while dengue remains possible.

Obtain urgent medical help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding, easy bruising, confusion, breathing difficulty, fainting, cold clammy skin or inability to drink. Emergency symptoms require care even if IgM or IgG is negative.

Ask which antibody is positive, how that fits the stage of illness, whether a repeat sample is needed, and which changes should lead you to urgent care.