What should you know about dengue NS1, IgG and IgM?

NS1 detects a dengue virus protein and can support recognition of an active infection early in the illness. IgM is an antibody response that may appear later. IgG can reflect a previous infection or, depending on the pattern and timing, a current or recent infection. One isolated result cannot reliably show the whole timeline.

A clinician may compare the three markers with the date fever began and with examination findings. Dengue fever can include headache, muscle aches, joint pain, chills and fever. Easy bruising or bleeding changes the urgency of assessment, regardless of whether an antibody result is available.

Take the complete laboratory report to a GP consultation and mention any earlier dengue illness, travel, mosquito exposure and medicines. Follow advice about fluids, rest and fever control. Do not self-treat with aspirin or ibuprofen unless a clinician approves them. Ask whether a repeat sample or blood-count check is needed because marker patterns change as illness progresses.

Go for urgent assessment if you develop severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, black stool, unusual sleepiness, confusion, fainting, breathing trouble or difficulty keeping fluids down. A falling fever does not by itself show that the illness is over; new symptoms during recovery need prompt review.

Ask what each marker means on your report, whether the pattern suggests a first or previous infection, whether the sample timing could affect the interpretation, and how you will be monitored for dehydration or bleeding.