JAPANESE ENCEPHALITIS VIRUS (JEV) DETECTION – MC043
🦟 Viral Brain Infection PCR📋 Test Details
- Report Time: 10th Working Day (Specialized Viral Culture/PCR).
- Method: Molecular Detection (PCR).
- Sample Type: Serum (Blood) OR CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid). Doctor's advice required for CSF.
- Test Code: MC043
What is Japanese Encephalitis (JE)?
Japanese Encephalitis is a viral disease caused by the flavivirus, which is spread to humans by the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes. It is the leading cause of viral encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) in Asia.
The JEV Detection Test uses advanced molecular technology (PCR) to detect the genetic material of the virus in the body. This is crucial for confirming the diagnosis, as JE symptoms mimic other brain infections like Meningitis or Herpes Encephalitis.
When is this Test Prescribed?
Doctors suspect JE in patients (especially children) living in or traveling to endemic areas who show symptoms of "Brain Fever," such as:
- High Fever with headache.
- Neck Stiffness (inability to touch chin to chest).
- Disorientation, confusion, or coma.
- Seizures (convulsions) or tremors.
Since there is no specific antiviral cure for JE (treatment is supportive care), accurate diagnosis is vital to rule out other treatable causes of encephalitis (like bacterial meningitis).
Sample Collection
The virus can be detected in:
- CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid): Collected via a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) by a doctor. This is the most accurate sample for brain infections.
- Serum (Blood): A standard blood draw. Useful in the early viremic phase.
Frequently Asked Questions
It spreads through mosquito bites (Culex species). Pigs and water birds are the hosts. It does not spread from person to person.
Molecular detection of rare viruses is a highly specialized process often performed in batches in a reference virology lab to ensure maximum accuracy and prevent false positives.
Yes, effective vaccines are available for Japanese Encephalitis and are part of the immunization schedule in endemic regions.
Disclaimer: This is a diagnostic test. Interpretation must be done by a Neurologist or Infectious Disease Specialist.