The Fever Panel Multiplex PCR Test

Fever Panel Multiplex PCR Test

Test Description

The Fever Panel Multiplex PCR Test is a comprehensive molecular diagnostic test designed to rapidly identify the most common pathogens responsible for acute febrile illnesses. Using advanced real-time multiplex PCR technology, this test can simultaneously detect the genetic material of over 20 bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens from a single patient sample, eliminating the need for multiple separate tests and reducing diagnostic uncertainty.

The Fever Panel Multiplex PCR Test is particularly valuable for identifying eight significant infectious agents commonly linked to fever, including

• Plasmodium spp. (Malaria)

• Dengue virus

• Salmonella spp. (Typhoid)

• Rickettsia spp. (Spotted fever)

• Chikungunya virus

• West Nile virus

• Leptospira spp. (Leptospirosis)

• Zika virus

This technology enables rapid and accurate amplification and identification of pathogen DNA or RNA, providing essential information to healthcare providers. The result is a significant reduction in time to diagnosis, which allows for early, targeted therapy and improved patient outcomes. The Fever Panel Multiplex PCR Test is ideal for use in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic laboratories, especially in regions where febrile illnesses are prevalent and rapid, precise diagnosis is critical for patient management and public health.

Indications of the Test

The Fever Panel Multiplex PCR Test is recommended in the following scenarios:

• Persistent High Fever: For patients experiencing a fever above 100.4°F (38°C) lasting more than two days, especially when the cause is unclear.

• Relevant Travel History: For individuals who have recently traveled to areas where diseases like Zika, West Nile virus, or malaria are endemic.

• Ineffective Medication: When standard treatments fail to reduce fever, suggesting a possible resistant or atypical infectious agent.

• Complex or Unexplained Febrile Illness: When initial investigations do not reveal a clear cause, or when multiple infections are suspected.

• Public Health Surveillance: To support early identification of outbreaks and enable swift intervention.

This test is essential for pinpointing the exact cause of fever when clinical symptoms alone are insufficient for diagnosis, ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate and effective treatment without delay.

Patient Preparation/Instructions

• No special preparation or fasting is required before taking the Fever Panel Multiplex PCR Test.

• It is advisable to inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are currently taking, as well as any recent travel history or known exposures to infectious agents.

• The test typically requires a blood sample, but in some cases, saliva or other recommended specimens may be collected.

• Sample collection is performed by a trained healthcare professional, following standard safety and hygiene protocols.

• After collection, the sample is sent to an accredited laboratory for PCR analysis.

Typical Reference Values

The Fever Panel Multiplex PCR Test provides qualitative results for each pathogen included in the panel:

Abnormal results—i.e., detection of one or more pathogens—require further clinical evaluation and management by your healthcare provider. The presence of a pathogen will guide targeted therapy and may prompt additional diagnostic testing if necessary.

Turnaround Time

Results from the Fever Panel Multiplex PCR Test are typically available within 24 hours of sample collection. This rapid turnaround allows for timely initiation of appropriate treatment, which is crucial in managing acute febrile illnesses and preventing complications.