Lab test · Infection
Leptospira IgM Test (Leptospirosis)
Leptospirosis (rat fever) check
- Blood sample
- No fasting
- Report within 2 days
- Home collection
What this test is for
Leptospirosis (rat fever) check
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira and spread through water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, especially rats. It is more common in the rainy season and after floods. It causes sudden fever, headache, strong muscle pain and red eyes, and in severe cases it can affect the kidneys and liver. This test detects IgM antibodies against the bacteria, which suggest a recent infection.
Why a doctor may order it
- Fever with muscle pain, especially in the calves, after wading through floodwater
- Fever in people who work with animals, in farming, or near sewage or drains
- Fever with jaundice or reduced urine
- When other fever tests have not found a cause
How to prepare
Fasting: Not needed.
No special preparation is needed. Tell your doctor when the fever started and about any contact with floodwater, drains, animals or rats, as this helps them read the result.
At home
- Sample
- Blood sample
- How it works
- The collector takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm at home. It is a quick visit, and the sealed and labelled tube goes straight to the laboratory.
- Report
- Within 2 days of collection.
What the results can mean
A positive IgM result supports a recent leptospirosis infection. Antibodies take several days to appear, so a test done early in the illness can be negative and may need repeating. Because leptospirosis can affect other organs, your doctor may also check your kidney and liver function. Your doctor will interpret all the results together with your symptoms.
What's included
One test: Leptospira IgM Test (Leptospirosis), from one blood sample.
Related tests
- Kidney Function Test (RFT)A kidney function test, also called a renal function test (RFT), is a group of blood tests that show how well your kidneys are filtering waste from the blood.
- Liver Function Test (LFT)A liver function test is a group of blood tests that show how well your liver is working and whether it is inflamed or damaged.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)A complete blood count looks at the three main types of cells in your blood: red blood cells, which carry oxygen; white blood cells, which fight infection; and platelets, which help blood to clot.
- Urine Routine Examination (Urine R/E)A urine routine examination, also called urinalysis, looks at your urine in three ways: its appearance, its chemistry (such as protein, sugar and acidity) and, under a microscope, any cells, crystals or bacteria.
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Questions people ask
How do people catch leptospirosis?
Usually through contact with water, mud or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals. The bacteria can enter through cuts in the skin or through the eyes, nose or mouth.
Why is leptospirosis called rat fever?
Rats are one of the most common carriers of the bacteria and pass them in their urine, which contaminates water and soil.
Can leptospirosis affect the kidneys and liver?
Yes. A severe form can cause jaundice and kidney problems, which is why early diagnosis and medical care are important.
How much does a Leptospira IgM test cost in Dhaka?
With Mukti Health the price is ৳2,500, and the sample is collected at your home in Dhaka. You see the price again before you confirm the booking in the Mukti Health app.
Can I do the Leptospira IgM test at home in Dhaka?
Yes. Book it in the Mukti Health app and a trained sample collector comes to your home in Dhaka to take the blood sample. You do not need to go to a laboratory.
How long does the Leptospira IgM report take?
The report is usually ready within 2 days of the sample being collected.