The Widal test, introduced by F. Widal in 1896, is used to measure antibody titres in the blood when typhoid or paratyphoid fever (collectively referred to as enteric fever) is suspected. Antibody titres reflect the immune response by measuring specific antibodies in the blood in response to antigens (foreign intruders). The test specifically identifies antibodies against the O and H antigens of Salmonella Typhi and the H antigens of Salmonella Paratyphi . It uses a suspension medium containing killed Salmonella Typhi bacteria as the antigen to diagnose typhoid fever in patients with fever. Therefore, individuals exhibiting symptoms of enteric fever may benefit from the Widal test.

Given its role in diagnosing enteric fever, the Widal test can be a critical diagnostic tool aiding in timely detection and treatment. Therefore, if you live in Gurgaon and are experiencing symptoms of enteric fever, consider getting a Widal test in Gurgaon today.

Before booking the Widal test in Gurgaon, consider the following factors:

Prerequisites

Fasting is not needed for the Widal test.

Best Time to Get Tested

Any time of day can be chosen for the Widal Test scheduling.

Who Should Get a Widal Test

Individuals who have symptoms like abdominal pain, fever, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues (constipation or diarrhoea), especially if they have been in areas where typhoid or paratyphoid fever is common, should get a Widal test.

Cautions Before Taking the Widal Test

This test does not require any particular safety measures.

Typhoid bacteria generally have an incubation period of 6 to 14 days, though it can be up to 30 days. This interval is the time between infection and symptom onset. For paratyphoid bacteria, the incubation period is between 1 and 10 days. Symptoms often worsen gradually over 3 to 4 days.

If you exhibit symptoms of typhoid fever, a doctor might request a Widal test. The symptoms of paratyphoid fever are similar, although not as severe. These signs and symptoms include:

• High fever or chills

• Feeling unwell, weak, or sick

• Pain in the abdomen

• Constipation

• Headache

• Extreme fatigue

• Diarrhoea

• Sweating

• Weight loss

• Decreased heart rate

• Blood in the stool

• Sore throat and persistent cough

• Bleeding from the nose

• Loss of appetite

• Red rash on the chest and abdomen

• Poisoning of blood

• Enlarged spleen or liver

• Confusion or hallucinations

• Difficulty in concentrating

Please keep in mind that vaccinated individuals are not entirely immune to typhoid, as 20–50% may still contract the disease upon exposure.

Those at higher risk may be recommended for a Widal test, including:

• Young children, as they are more prone to these diseases than adults.

• Travellers to regions with high prevalence of typhoid and paratyphoid (like India, Bangladesh, the Middle East, and Africa).

• Individuals in close contact with an infected person.

Below is a breakdown of the results of the Widal test:

Interpretation

A titre less than 1:80 is regarded as negative, suggesting the patient does not have an infection.

Titres of 1:80 or higher are typically considered positive, although this threshold can vary among populations and regions. A rising titre, observed through two or more samples taken 4 to 6 days apart after symptoms begin, is more significant than a single elevated titre. The test results should be evaluated in conjunction with the patient’s medical findings for an accurate diagnosis.

Limitations

Typhoid vaccination may cause elevated antibody titres in patients, potentially leading to false-positive results. Similarly, individuals with prior infections or immunisations might have misleading results.

Agglutinins usually appear in the blood by the end of the first week of infection, so samples taken earlier may yield negative results.

Although the serological findings of this test are valuable, they should not replace culture-based methods for identifying the causative organisms. Recovery and identification of the pathogens through culture and biochemical tests are essential.