Typhoid Test Names and Details
Explore common typhoid test names and details, including Widal, Typhi IgM/IgG, and blood culture, to understand their role in diagnosis.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 27th Jul, 2025
Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water and can lead to high fever, weakness, stomach pain, and other complications if left untreated. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms, getting tested early is crucial for proper treatment.
In this article, we’ll discuss the different typhoid test names and details, helping you understand which test might be right for you, how they work, and what to expect.
Common Typhoid Tests
Doctors use several tests to diagnose typhoid fever. The choice depends on the stage of infection and the patient’s condition. Here are the most common ones:
1. Widal Test
What it checks for: Antibodies against Salmonella typhi in the blood.
How it works: A blood sample is taken, and the lab checks for antibodies (O and H antigens) that fight the bacteria.
When to take it: Usually after 7–10 days of symptoms.
Limitations: False positives can occur if you’ve had a previous infection or vaccination.
2. Typhoid IgM/IgG Test (ELISA)
What it checks for: Specific IgM (early infection) and IgG (past infection or immunity) antibodies.
How it works: A blood sample is tested using ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) for more accurate results.
When to take it: Within the first week of symptoms for IgM; IgG indicates past exposure.
3. Blood Culture Test
What it checks for: Live Salmonella typhi bacteria in the blood.
How it works: A blood sample is placed in a special medium to see if bacteria grow.
When to take it: Best in the first week of illness when bacteria are in the bloodstream.
Limitations: Takes 2–5 days for results.
4. Stool Culture Test
What it checks for: Salmonella typhi in stool samples.
How it works: A stool sample is cultured to detect bacteria.
When to take it: Useful in later stages (second week onwards) when bacteria enter the intestines.
5. Urine Culture Test
What it checks for: Bacteria in urine.
How it works: A urine sample is tested for bacterial growth.
When to take it: Less common but may be used in some cases.
6. Rapid Typhoid Test (Typhidot, Tubex TF, etc.)
What it checks for: Quick detection of typhoid antibodies.
How it works: A finger-prick blood test gives results in 15–30 minutes.
When to take it: Early detection, but may need confirmation with other tests.
Member priceWhich Test Should You Take?
The best test depends on:
How long you’ve had symptoms (early vs. late-stage infection).
Previous infections or vaccinations (which may affect antibody tests).
Doctor’s recommendation (they may suggest multiple tests for accuracy).
If you have:
High fever, headache, weakness → Widal or Rapid Test (early screening).
Severe symptoms (vomiting, diarrhoea, rash) → Blood Culture (most accurate).
Prolonged illness (after 1 week) → Stool Culture or Typhoid IgM/IgG Test.
How to Prepare for a Typhoid Test?
Fasting: Not usually required, but check with your doctor.
Medications: Inform your doctor if you’re on antibiotics, as they can affect results.
Sample collection: Blood, stool, or urine samples are taken in a lab.
To Know More Consult Top Specialists
What If the Test is Positive?
If you test positive:
Start antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor.
Stay hydrated (drink clean water, ORS, or coconut water).
Eat light, easily digestible foods (bananas, rice, toast).
Rest and avoid spreading infection (wash hands frequently).
Preventing Typhoid Fever
Get vaccinated (oral or injectable typhoid vaccines are available).
Drink boiled or purified water.
Avoid street food and raw vegetables.
Wash hands before eating.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical help if you have:
Persistent high fever (above 103°F).
Severe diarrhea or vomiting.
Confusion or extreme weakness.
Early diagnosis and treatment prevent complications like intestinal bleeding or severe dehydration. If you suspect typhoid, don’t wait! Apollo 24|7 offers quick, reliable typhoid testing with home sample collection.
Conclusion
Typhoid fever is treatable if caught early. Knowing the right test can help you get an accurate diagnosis and recover faster. Stay cautious, follow hygiene practices, and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
Consult Top Specialists
To Know More Consult Top Specialists
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Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Ramya Hari
General Practitioner
18 Years • Medical Head & Family Physician, DG Shipping Approved Doctor, Panel Physician - UK Visa Medicals
Chennai
Apollo Medical Centre Kotturpuram, Chennai
Dr. Aman Kumar
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
29 Years • MBBS, MD
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Heart Centre Thousand Lights, Chennai
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Partha Pratim Ghosh
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
30 Years • MBBS,MD
Guwahati
Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati
(100+ Patients)
Dr Rajashree Dhongade
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
9 Years • MD.Medicine,Fellowship in Critical Care Medicine (MUHS)
Nashik
Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik
(25+ Patients)
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