Molecular testing for West Nile virus is used to quickly detect the virus (both in patients and in blood derivatives before transfusion) and as an auxiliary test to the diagnosis of the virus infection.
West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne RNA virus that mainly affects birds but occasionally infects horses and humans. Most people infected with the West Nile virus have no symptoms, about 20% have West Nile fever with mild symptoms such as headache, myalgia, and rarer skin infections on the body trunk, and only a very few cases of West Nile (< 1%) viral infections result in meningitis or encephalitis.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
