Skip to content

Fluorescent antibody test for flavivirus subtype identification (serum/plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test helps identify which type of flavivirus antibodies (like dengue, yellow fever, or West Nile) may be present in your blood. It’s used to diagnose infections or guide treatment decisions.

Quick summary

["Determines the specific flavivirus causing possible infection through antibody detection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22828-8
Short code
FLUAV Subtyp Spec ID
Synonyms
FLUAV Subtyp Spec ID
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-diffusion
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

This test detects antibodies specific to different flavivirus subtypes, such as dengue, yellow fever, or West Nile virus. Antibodies develop after infection or vaccination, helping doctors pinpoint the likely cause of symptoms like fever, rash, or neurological issues.

Why It Matters in Diagnosis

Knowing the exact flavivirus subtype is important for tailored treatment and infection control. For example, dengue and yellow fever require different approaches, and subtype identification supports public health monitoring.

Common Uses and Who Needs It

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of flavivirus infection (e.g., sudden high fever, headache, or skin rash) after travel to endemic regions or exposure to mosquitoes. It’s also used in research or outbreak investigations.

Sample Collection and Preparation

Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed into serum or plasma and sent to a lab for fluorescent antibody testing. Results are typically ready within 2–5 business days.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Flavivirus subtype antibody screening

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor ask for this test?
To confirm a flavivirus infection (e.g., dengue, yellow fever) when symptoms like fever, joint pain, or neurological issues appear. It helps differentiate between similar-looking infections and guides treatment or vaccination decisions.
How soon can I expect results?
Results are usually available within 2–5 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you directly with the outcome.
What if my test is positive?
A positive result means you likely had exposure to a flavivirus. Your doctor will work with you to confirm the subtype and recommend next steps, such as supportive care, antiviral treatment, or vaccination if applicable.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy