Overview
The Weil-Felix test is an agglutination assay that detects antibodies produced by your immune system when fighting certain bacterial infections spread by ticks, fleas, and lice. The test is based on a unique scientific principle: the bacteria that cause Rickettsial diseases share similar markers (antigens) with a different bacterium called Proteus. By testing your blood against these Proteus antigens (OX19, OX2, and OXK), doctors can identify a Rickettsial infection.
[Image: Microscopic view of Rickettsia bacteria and the agglutination (clumping) process]
Why Book This Test?
This test is specifically recommended for patients experiencing “unexplained fever” (Pyrexia of Unknown Origin) along with:
- High Fever and Chills: Often appearing suddenly.
- Severe Headache: A common hallmark of Rickettsial diseases.
- Characteristic Rash: Often appearing on the trunk, palms, or soles.
- History of Bites: Recent exposure to ticks, fleas, or mites in wooded or rural areas.
- Muscle Pain and Body Aches: General malaise and extreme fatigue.
₹1,500.00