Rickettsia typhi Surface antigen - IgM
What is Rickettsia typhi Surface Antigen – IgM?
Rickettsia typhi is the bacterium that causes murine typhus, a flea-borne illness most commonly found in warm, coastal regions of the world, including parts of the southern United States (e.g., Texas and California). It is primarily transmitted to humans by the bite of fleas infected from rodents or, occasionally, opossums or other small mammals.
The Surface Antigen – IgM test detects IgM antibodies produced by your immune system in response to proteins on the surface of Rickettsia typhi. IgM antibodies are typically the first to appear during an infection, usually within the first 1 to 2 weeks of exposure. A positive result generally suggests a recent or active infection.
What does it mean if your Rickettsia typhi Surface antigen - IgM result is too high?
What Does a Positive or Elevated IgM Result Mean?
A positive or elevated IgM result for Rickettsia typhi indicates:
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A recent or current infection with R. typhi (murine typhus)
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An active immune response during the early stages of disease
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The likely presence of symptoms such as fever, rash, and body aches
This result is most clinically useful during the acute phase of illness, before IgG antibodies have developed.
Symptoms of Rickettsia typhi (Murine Typhus)
Symptoms often begin 1–2 weeks after exposure and can include:
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Sudden high fever
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Headache
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Muscle aches
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Rash (often on the trunk)
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Nausea or vomiting
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Fatigue
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In severe cases: confusion, respiratory issues, or organ involvement
Murine typhus is treatable with antibiotics, but early diagnosis is important to avoid complications.
Next Steps
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Consult your healthcare provider to interpret this result in the context of your symptoms, history of flea exposure, or known outbreaks in your area.
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Follow-up testing (e.g., IgG serology or PCR) may be recommended to confirm the infection or assess disease progression.
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If murine typhus is suspected, prompt antibiotic treatment—typically with doxycycline—is highly effective.
Summary
The Rickettsia typhi Surface Antigen – IgM test identifies early immune system activity in response to the bacterium that causes murine typhus. A medium or positive result suggests recent or ongoing infection, especially if consistent symptoms are present. Timely medical evaluation and treatment are essential for full recovery and to prevent complications.
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