West Nile Virus (plasma, RNA - qualitative)
2 days 
Valabilă cu chemare la domiciliu West Nile virus is most commonly transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It belongs to the Flavivirus family, which also includes viruses such as Dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis.
Symptoms:
Most individuals infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms. Approximately 1 in 5 people develop mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, skin rash, and fatigue.
In severe cases—affecting less than 1% of infected individuals—the virus can cause meningitis, encephalitis, or paralysis, which may be life-threatening.
Mode of Transmission:
The virus is mainly transmitted through the bite of Culex mosquitoes that have previously bitten an infected bird.
Rarely, transmission may occur through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
Testing Principle:
The qualitative method for detecting West Nile virus RNA in plasma is based on nucleic acid amplification techniques, most commonly Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR).
Indications for West Nile Virus RNA Testing (Plasma, Qualitative):
The test is used in the following cases:
1. Clinical symptoms suggestive of West Nile virus infection:
- Sudden and persistent fever, severe headache
- Neurological symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, seizures, or neck stiffness (suggesting encephalitis or meningitis)
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Unexplained rashes or skin eruptions
2. Patients with risk of exposure:
- Individuals bitten by mosquitoes in areas known for West Nile virus transmission
- Travelers returning from endemic areas (especially during warm seasons when mosquitoes are active)
3. Epidemiological monitoring:
- People living or working in areas where recent West Nile virus cases have been reported
- Testing may be performed to identify asymptomatic infections as part of public health surveillance programs
4. Transplants or blood transfusions:
- Individuals scheduled to receive organ transplants or blood transfusions and who come from regions affected by West Nile virus
5. Infants and pregnant women:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women exposed to infected mosquitoes may be tested to rule out perinatal transmission risk
6. Immunocompromised patients:
- People with weakened immune systems (e.g., those with HIV/AIDS, or undergoing chemotherapy) may be tested, as they are at higher risk of developing severe forms of the disease
Preparation for West Nile Virus RNA Testing (Plasma, Qualitative):
Medical Consultation:
- Before testing, consult your physician to discuss symptoms and your travel or exposure history to areas affected by West Nile virus. The doctor will determine if testing is necessary based on your infection risk.
Blood Sample Collection:
- The test is performed by collecting a blood (plasma) sample.
- No special preparation is required, such as fasting.
- You may eat and drink normally before the test, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
Medication:
- Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications, especially antivirals or immunosuppressants, as these may affect test results.
- Your doctor may advise you to continue your usual treatment but consult them about any concerns regarding drug interactions.
Health Condition:
- Inform your doctor if you are ill or have other medical conditions, as this may affect how the results are interpreted.
- Be aware that this test detects only the presence of active viral RNA in plasma, and not antibodies—meaning it is useful during the acute phase of infection.
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