Widal Test (Slide Method) in Ahmedabad - Price & Details

The Widal test is a diagnostic tool used to support the detection of infections such as typhoid and paratyphoid fever. These are caused by specific bacteria named Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Paratyphi. These bacteria are present in infected human faeces and spread through contaminated hands, food, or water. The agglutinins (antigens) of these bacteria present in an infected person can be detected using the Widal test. The Widal test requires a small blood sample and does not require fasting.

The Widal test is a diagnostic lab test recommended if typhoid or paratyphoid fever is suspected or if you are at higher risk.

The indications for the Widal test are the following:

• Suspected infection - If you have symptoms such as high persistent fever, diarrhoea or constipation, or rose-coloured spots on the body, Widal testing is recommended to check for typhoid or paratyphoid fever.
• Living in poor sanitation areas - In areas with poor sanitation or unsafe water supplies, people are at higher risk. Screening for enteric fever (typhoid and paratyphoid fever) is important in such areas to identify possible outbreaks.
• Exposurevictims- Anyone who has consumed contaminated food or water or has come into contact with an infected person needs to be screened for typhoid.
• Travellers - Anyone travelling or returning from areas with a high prevalence of typhoid fever should get screened.

The Widal test is used specifically to support the detection of typhoid fever and paratyphoid fever,collectively known as enteric fever. These illnesses are clinically similar, with paratyphoid fever generally being milder, with a fast recovery rate.

The following are the signs and symptoms of typhoid and paratyphoid fever:

• High persistent fever (103- 104 degrees Fahrenheit) 
• Aches (headaches or body aches)
• Digestive disturbances (diarrhoea or constipation)
• Rose-coloured spots (on the chest or stomach)
• Throat infection (cough or sore throat)

Severe symptoms include:

• Intestinal bleeding: Blood in the stools may be observed in severe cases.
• Meningitis: Inflammation of protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
• Sepsis: A life-threatening condition caused by an extreme response to bacterial infection.

What to Expect Before the Test

• No fasting is required for the Widal test.
• Always inform your doctor about medications or vaccination history before the test. 
• Consult your healthcare provider for any special instructions before the test.

What to Expect During the Sample Collection

A blood sample is required for the Widal test. You can expect the following during sample collection:

1. An elastic band is tied around your upper arm for better access to your veins.
2. A needle is inserted into a vein of the inner arm to collect the blood sample.
3. A bandage is placed over the puncture site to stop any minor bleeding.

What to Expect After the Test

• This blood sample collection procedure is usually safe, with no to minimal risk.
• Feeling dizzy for a few seconds is normal; sit and relax for a few minutes to recover.

Note: If you notice anything unusual at the puncture site, such as persistent bleeding, a rash, or pain, consult your healthcare provider.

• The Widal test detects the presence of S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi bacteria through an agglutination reaction.
• It measures antibody levels formed in response to 4 agglutinins (antigens), including S. Typhi (O, H) and S. Paratyphi (A, B). 
• The antibody levels (titres) reveal the presence of any of the above antigens in the body.

The Widal test measures antibody levels formed against specific four antigens and is expressed in titres. Refer to the table below for more details:

Important note: The normal reference ranges may vary from lab to lab. The baseline antibody titre levels are high in people living in an endemic area. Always refer to the ranges in your report and consult your doctor for better interpretation.

The Widal test is a non-definitive test, and the results may be associated with typhoid or paratyphoid fever. Clinical correlation and expert guidance are important to confirm a diagnosis.

Refer to the table below for more details:

Disclaimer: This table is for educational purposes and provides a risk assessment only. These findings do not confirm a diagnosis. The Widal test is known to produce false-positive and false-negative results in various clinical situations. Always consult your doctor to understand how these results relate to your symptoms and overall health.

The Widal test has certain limitations and may produce false results. These factors should be considered during testing to prevent incorrect diagnosis. Several factors can influence the Widal test results, including:

1. Timing of the test - During the first week of infection, antibody titres are low and hence give false-negative results.
2. Endemic areas - Baseline antibody titre levels are high in endemic areas such as India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Africa.
3. Vaccination - Previous vaccination can give a false-positive result, as antibody titres are high.
4. Past infection - Antibody titres can stay elevated for months after infection, giving false-positive results.
5. Other medical conditions - The presence of malaria or dengue can sometimes cause false-positive results.
6. Use of antibiotics - Prior use of antibiotics can give false-negative results.

In Ahmedabad, you can get a Widal test through PharmEasy at an approximate price of INR 199. Pricing may differ slightly based on the lab partner and local availability. To explore better options, you can check Widal test rates in other major cities across India.

You can book Widal Test in Ahmedabad through PharmEasy with convenient home sample collection across several localities, including :

• Satellite
• Bodakdev
• Science City 
• Navrangpura
• Paldi
• Naranpura
• Ambawadi
• Prahlad Nagar
• Isanpur 
• Thaltej
• Bopal
• Ranip 
• Gota
• Chandkheda
• Motera
• Shahibaug
• Maninagar
• Naroda
• Nikol
• Vastral

You can also check service availability during purchase by entering your pincode.