Quantitative Estimation of Dengue NS-1 Antigen by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay with its Clinical and Laboratory Correlation – An Observational Study

Objectives: Dengue is a public health concern globally, which requires early and accurate diagnosis to reduce patient morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the quantitative estimation of dengue non-structural (NS)-1 antigen by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with its clinical and laboratory correlation. Material and Methods: This observational study was conducted in a tertiary care setting over one-and-a-half years with 280 symptomatic individuals as the study sample. Blood samples were collected, excluding patients with other diseases. Patient parameters included age, gender, symptoms, comorbidities and risk category. Quantitative ELISA was used to estimate NS1 antigen level, and statistical analysis was performed. Results: About 86.8% and 92.1% of symptomatic individuals were positive for qualitative and quantitative ELISA NS1 tests, respectively, while rapid antigen tests showed 96.1% positive results. High mortality rates were observed in 18.9% of patients. Quantitative ELISA NS1 had significant negative ( P = 0.001) correlations with total Leucocyte count (TLC), platelet count, pulse pressure and serum glutamate oxaloacaetic transaminase (SGOT) but a significant positive ( P = 0.024) correlation with serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT). Mortality rates had a significant correlation ( P = 0.040). Conclusion: Our findings highlight the utility of quantitative estimation of dengue NS-1 antigen by ELISA, demonstrating strong correlations with clinical and laboratory parameters. The high positivity rates observed with quantitative ELISA NS1 tests, alongside the notable mortality rates, emphasise the severity of dengue infections. Further research and clinical validation are warranted to enhance our understanding of dengue pathogenesis and refine diagnostic and management strategies to improve patient outcomes.