The famous dengue test: how the noose test is done

Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito that can be severe, and early diagnosis is crucial to avoid complications. The tourniquet test is an important ally in this process, as it is a simple, fast, and inexpensive examination that can be performed anywhere.

How does the tourniquet test work?

The tourniquet test is performed using an arm blood pressure cuff, which is inflated to a specific pressure for five minutes. After this period, the pressure is released, and the area of the forearm where the cuff was applied is inspected. If more than 20 petechiae (small red spots) are observed in a 5 cm² square, the test is considered positive.

What are the advantages of the tourniquet test?

• Simple: The test is easy to perform and does not require any special equipment.
• Fast: Test results can be obtained in a few minutes.
• Inexpensive: The test is relatively cheap and can be performed at any health facility.
• Non-invasive: The test is a non-invasive procedure that does not cause pain or discomfort.

What are the disadvantages of the tourniquet test?

• Specificity: The tourniquet test is not specific to dengue and may be positive in other diseases that also cause capillary fragility.
• Sensitivity: The tourniquet test may not be positive in all cases of dengue, especially in the early days of the disease.

Facts about the tourniquet test:

• The tourniquet test was first described in 1911 by the German physician Theodor Rumpel.
• The tourniquet test is also used to diagnose other diseases, such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and hemophilia.
• The tourniquet test is an important examination for dengue diagnosis, but it should be interpreted together with other tests and clinical signs.

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