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

The Widal test is a diagnostic blood test used to detect bacterial infections such as typhoid and paratyphoid fever. These are caused by a specific group of bacteria, namely, Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Paratyphi. These bacteria are found in the faeces of infected people and spread through contaminated food and water. The Widal test helps diagnose infected persons and screen high-risk groups by measuring the antibody levels in blood against antigens of S. Typhi and S. Paratyphi. A blood sample collected from a vein in the inner arm is required for the Widal test.

A Widal test is recommended for people who have symptoms associated with typhoid/paratyphoid fever or are at higher risk of developing these illnesses.

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

• High fever - High temperatures of 103-104 degrees Fahrenheit persisting for days or weeks.
• Aches - Frequent headaches or body aches.
• Digestive disturbances - Such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, or constipation.
• Characteristic rashes - Rose-coloured spots or rashes on the chest or stomach.
• Throat infection - A persistent cough or sore throat may be present.

Severe symptoms include:

• Intestinal bleeding/perforation - Bloody stools can be observed.
• Meningitis - Inflammation of protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
• Sepsis - A life-threatening condition that occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream.

The High-risk groups who should consider the Widal test include:

• Poor sanitation conditions - In areas with poor sanitation or unsafe water supplies, people are at higher risk and require screening for enteric fever (typhoid and paratyphoid fever)
• Exposure victims - Individuals who consumed contaminated food or water from a common place or have come into contact with an infected person need to be screened for typhoid.
• Travellers - Anyone travelling to or returning from areas with high typhoid prevalence should be screened for typhoid fever.

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 works by measuring antibody levels (titres) formed in response to specific four antigens, including S. Typhi (O, H) and S. Paratyphi (A, B). 
• If antibodies against these antigens are present in the blood, an agglutination reaction occurs, signifying the presence of infection.
• Widal testing should be repeated at intervals, as antibody levels (titres) rise within 7-10 days if active infection is present.

The Widal test measures antibody formation against antigens of S.typhi and S. paratyphi bacteria 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. 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 cannot confirm a diagnosis alone; results are interpreted along with the clinical symptoms under an expert’s guidance. 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 is an unreliable standalone test, as its test results are influenced by various factors, including:

1. Timing of the test - During the first week of infection, antibody titres are low, giving 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 Pune, a Widal test through PharmEasy is usually priced at around INR 199. The exact amount may vary depending on the diagnostic partner and service availability. To get a better perspective, you can compare Widal test prices across major cities in India.

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

• Kothrud
• Shivajinagar
• Baner
• Aundh
• Pashan
• Wagholi
• Karve Nagar
• Warje
• Sinhagad Road
• Viman Nagar
• Lohegaon
• Kalyani Nagar
• Koregaon Park
• Hadapsar
• Mundhwa
• Kharadi
• Hinjewadi
• Nigdi
• Pimple Saudagar
• Dhankawadi

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