Interpret Your Dengue NS1 Antigen Results
Enter your Dengue NS1 value below and get an instant, free AI interpretation — a plain-English explanation checked against WHO/IFCC reference ranges.
Medical Disclaimer
This AI-generated interpretation is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results may vary based on individual health factors not captured here.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health decisions. Read full disclaimer →
Dengue NS1 Antigen Normal Ranges
Dengue NS1 (Non-structural protein 1) antigen is a viral glycoprotein secreted at high concentrations into the bloodstream during early dengue virus infection.
| Reference Range | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Negative / Non-reactive | qualitative | Negative = absent; Positive = dengue virus present |
Why Doctors Order the Dengue NS1 Antigen Test
Dengue fever is caused by four serotypes of Dengue virus (DENV 1–4), transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Over 400 million dengue infections occur globally each year.
How to Enter Your Dengue NS1 Result
Dengue NS1 Antigen is usually reported as a qualitative result — for example negative or positive — so enter it exactly as it is printed on your lab report.
What a Negative or Positive Dengue NS1 Result Can Mean
Negative (non-reactive) result
- Negative NS1 does not exclude dengue — it is commonly negative after Day 5 as antibodies develop and NS1 is cleared
- Secondary dengue infections (second infection with a different serotype) may have lower NS1 antigenemia
Positive (reactive) result
- Active Dengue virus infection (serotypes 1, 2, 3, or 4)
- Positive on Days 1–5 of fever (highest sensitivity on Days 1–2)
- Detected across all four dengue serotypes and multiple geographic strains
These are common associations, not a diagnosis. A single result is read alongside your symptoms, history and other tests — discuss it with your doctor.
What Can Change Your Dengue NS1 Result
Before you read too much into a result, consider whether any of these applied:
- Timing: NS1 sensitivity drops sharply after Day 5 (as antibodies form and clear NS1)
- Secondary dengue infections may have lower NS1 levels due to faster antibody-mediated clearance
- Cross-reactivity: Zika virus NS1 may cause false-positive dengue NS1 in some assays (particularly relevant in Latin America)
Preparing for the test: Test should be performed within the first 5 days of fever onset for maximum NS1 sensitivity. After Day 5, add Dengue IgM and IgG serology.
Symptoms That Often Prompt Dengue NS1 Testing
- Classic dengue ("breakbone fever"): sudden high fever (39–40°C), severe headache, pain behind the eyes
- Severe muscle and joint pain (hence "breakbone fever")
- Skin rash (often maculopapular, appearing on Days 3–5)
- Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
- Warning signs of severe dengue: abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums, blood in urine/stool, rapid breathing, confusion
Want the full clinical guide to Dengue NS1 Antigen?
Reference ranges, causes, symptoms, preparation, and FAQs.