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

The Widal test is a diagnostic blood test used to detect infection caused by Salmonella bacteria. Salmonella Typhi and Paratyphi bacteria cause illnesses known as typhoid and paratyphoid fever. These bacteria are usually found in food or water contaminated with human faeces. This infection can also spread through contaminated or unwashed hands.

The Widal test measures antibody levels and titres formed in the body against Salmonella Typhi and Paratyphi bacteria. Timely medical evaluation and treatment of typhoid and paratyphoid fever are important to reduce the risk of complications.

The Widal test is a blood test used to help diagnose or screen individuals suspected of, or at higher risk for, typhoid and paratyphoid fever. These two are similar, with paratyphoid being the milder one.

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

• Fever - This fever is characterised by a high temperature of 103 - 104 degrees Fahrenheit that persists for days or weeks.
• Aches- Frequent headaches or body aches are the common features.
• Digestive issues- Symptoms like nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, or constipation can be seen.
• Rashes- Rose-coloured spots or rashes occur on the chest or stomach.
• Throat infection- A persistent cough or sore throat may be present.

Severe symptoms may include:

• Intestinal bleeding- Blood in the stools can 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.

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

• 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.
• Exposure victims- 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 to or returning from areas with a 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 the sample collection:

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

What to Expect After the Test

• This blood sample collection procedure is usually safe, with minimal to no 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 Salmonella Typhi and Paratyphi bacteria.
• It measures antibody levels formed in response to specific antigens, including S. Typhi (O, H) and S. Paratyphi (A, B).
• The antibody levels (titres) gradually rise after the first week if an active infection is present.

The Widal test measures antibody formation against specific 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, used for result interpretation in correlation with clinical symptoms.

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 is known to produce false results. Several factors that influence the Widal test results are the following:

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

In Mumbai, a Widal test booked via PharmEasy is generally available at around INR 199. The price may vary depending on the diagnostic partner and service availability. For a better understanding, you can compare Widal test costs across major cities in India

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

• Andheri
• Bandra
• Khar
• Sion
• Matunga
• Juhu
• Goregaon
• Malad
• Kandivali
• Borivali
• Churchgate
• Powai
• Ghatkopar
• Chembur
• Kurla
• Dadar
• Lower Parel
• Worli
• Mulund
• Vikhroli

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