What is the NS1 test for dengue fever?

Introduction

Dengue fever, caused by the dengue virus, is a significant global public health concern. Rapid and reliable diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and mitigation of the disease's impact. The NS1 test is one of the primary diagnostic tools used to detect dengue infection in its early stages.

NS1 Test Overview

The NS1 test specifically detects the presence of the nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) of the dengue virus in human serum or plasma. NS1 is a highly conserved glycoprotein and can be found circulating in the blood from the first day after the onset of fever, often up to the 9th day.

This test is available in various formats, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). The ELISA method provides quantitative results and is more suitable for laboratory settings, while RDTs offer quick results at the point of care.

Clinical Significance

Infection with any of the four dengue virus serotypes can be detected using the NS1 test. Its early detection capability is crucial, as it helps to differentiate dengue from other febrile illnesses and enables timely intervention. Clinicians often rely on NS1 results, especially in endemic regions, to decide on patient management strategies.

Accuracy and Reliability

Numerous studies have validated the NS1 test against nucleic acid amplification tests with sensitivity ranging from 60% to 80% and specificity exceeding 90%. The test’s reliability makes it a mainstream choice for early dengue detection.

HYSEN Company Solutions

HYSEN Biotechnology offers a variety of solutions for dengue diagnosis, including innovative NS1 test kits. Engineered for high sensitivity and specificity, HYSEN’s rapid tests provide results within 20 minutes. The company's NS1 kits have a proven sensitivity of over 75% and a specificity of over 95%, making them an excellent choice for clinical settings.

HYSEN’s commitment to advancing diagnostic technologies ensures that their products adhere to rigorous quality standards, providing reliable and accurate outcomes for healthcare providers.

References

1. World Health Organization. Dengue and severe dengue - WHO, 2021.
2. Santayana, G., et al. Diagnostic accuracy of NS1 test for early detection of dengue virus infection - Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2020.
3. HYSEN Biotechnology. NS1 Detection Kit: Reliable solutions for dengue diagnosis - Company Literature, 2022.