Scrub typhus profile Weil felix and scrub typhus-IgM Test

The Rickettsia pathogens are a genus of parasites that use rodents as hosts. Multiple species have been recorded, each associated with a different type of Typhus Fever. One such species is Rickettsia tsutsugamushi, also called Scrub Typhus due to their presence being largely in shrub forests. The symptoms of Typhus Fever include muscle ache, headache, abdominal pain and most prominently, a fever. Scrub Typhus can be diagnosed through two tests to confirm their presence: the Weil Felix test and the IgM ELISA test. Both of these require a blood sample.

No special preparation is required. Inform the doctor of any medications being taken by the patient. It is recommended that the patient wear a short sleeved shirt.

For Weil Felix test: If agglutination is seen, the result is positive If no agglutination is present, further tests are advised. For IgM test: The presence of IgM antibodies can indicate infection. Further tests are prescribed if IgM antibodies are absent.

'For the blood sample:
The site (vein on the patient's arm) will be cleaned with an alcohol swab.
A sterile needle will be inserted.
About 2-3 ml blood will be drawn.
The site will be cleaned with a cotton swab.
For the Weil Felix test:
The serum from the blood sample will be exposed to antigen OXK.
Agglutination will be observed.
For the IgM antibody test:
The serum from the blood sample will be treated to an ELISA test.
Presence of IgM will be observed.