Brucella IgG

Brucellosis is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Brucella. It is a zoonotic infection because it spreads from animals to humans. The bacteria have different strains found in cows, pigs, sheep, goats, camels, and dogs. The infection spreads when a person comes in contact with an infected animal or consumes animal products infected with the bacteria. Although rare, brucellosis can spread from human to human through breastfeeding or sexual contact.

The common sources of infection include unpasteurised milk, direct contact with infected animals, and inhalation of aerosols. The symptoms of brucellosis are usually nonspecific and can often be mistaken for flu-like symptoms. The Brucella IgG test is a blood test used to detect the presence of antibodies produced against Brucella bacterial invasion in the blood.

A Brucella IgG test is necessary for people who work at a cattle farm or poultry farm, are in close contact with cattle, have a pet who is not appropriately vaccinated for brucellosis, consume animal products regularly, breathe contaminated air in an area where cattle reside, work in meat-processing plants or slaughterhouses, and eat gourmet cheese, pure unpasteurised cheese, and village cheeses.

Brucellosis symptoms usually occur within one to four weeks after exposure to the Brucella bacteria. Some of the symptoms of Brucellosis include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Muscle weakness and joint pain
• Night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss and sudden loo of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Repetitive cough
• Constipation or diarrhoea

In rare cases, Brucellosis could cause complications such as endocarditis, meningitis, and arthritis.

Test Procedure

The test involves collecting a blood sample from the patient's arm using a sterile syringe. The laboratory technician will clean the area with an antiseptic solution and wrap a tourniquet to make it easier to locate the vein. Once the vein is located, the needle is inserted, and blood is drawn into a tube attached to the syringe. After the blood is collected, pressure is applied to the injection site to stop any bleeding, and a sterile bandage is applied. The process is quick and relatively painless.

At the lab, the sample is analysed for the presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against the Brucella bacteria. The test uses an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect the antibodies in the blood. The results of the test are usually available within seven days of sample collection. The test is very accurate and can detect even small amounts of antibodies.

Treatment

A positive Brucella IgG test result indicates that the individual has been exposed to the bacteria at some point. However, it does not necessarily mean that the person has an active infection. Further tests may be required, such as a Brucella IgM test, a culture test, or a PCR test to confirm the diagnosis. If you have an active infection, you should immediately consult with a healthcare professional to discuss further treatment options. Early treatment with antibiotics is essential to prevent complications and long-term health effects.

Booking a Brucella IgG test on Apollo 24|7 is easy and convenient. Simply visit the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile app and select the Brucella IgG test from the list of available tests. Then book a slot at your nearest Apollo diagnostic centre on your preferred date and at a convenient time. Finally, you need to make the payment. The results of the test will be available within 5 days of sample collection.

Benefits of Early Diagnosis

Early detection of brucellosis can help in timely treatment and prevent complications. Opting for an Apollo 24|7 Brucella IgG test has numerous benefits. The Brucella IgG test price is affordable and the test yields accurate results. The booking process is simple and quick. Early diagnosis leads to timely treatment which prevents further complications and helps you safeguard your health.
So, what are you waiting for - book your Brucella IgG test on Apollo 24|7 today!