Hepatitis B Test
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the HBV (hepatitis B virus). Hepatitis B testing can detect an active or past infection and determine immunity to the virus. This is achieved through a simple blood test, which plays a crucial role in diagnosing the disease, monitoring its progression, and assessing the effectiveness of vaccines.
It is a viral infection that leads to liver inflammation. It is commonly transmitted through contact with infected body fluids, particularly blood. Methods of transmission include childbirth, shared needles, and unprotected sex.
Hepatitis B can be short-term (acute)or long-term (chronic). Acute infections often resolve within six months without treatment, but approximately 5–10% of cases progress to chronic hepatitis B, which can lead to serious complications like liver failure, cancer, or damage.
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Testing is crucial for several reasons:
Hepatitis B tests identify antigens (virus proteins) and antibodies (produced by the immune system in response to the virus). Key components include:
If hepatitis B is confirmed through initial testing, further evaluations may be conducted to monitor disease progression, guide treatment strategies, and assess the potential to transmit the virus:
Hepatitis B screening is recommended for individuals at higher risk of infection, including:
Testing may also be necessary if you experience symptoms such as:
Additionally, testing may follow abnormal liver function tests or to confirm immunity before or after vaccination.
Hepatitis B testing is typically performed using a blood sample collected by our phlebotomist or an at-home test kit.
You do not need any special preparation for this procedure. However, you should inform your doctor about any supplements or medications you are taking.
Blood is drawn from the arm's vein for laboratory tests. This involves locating a suitable vein, tying a tourniquet around the upper arm, cleaning the puncture site, and drawing blood using a needle.
Alternatively, a small blood sample might be collected using a finger prick, particularly in young children or for at-home kits. A bandage or gauze is applied to the puncture site, and you can resume your normal activities immediately.
Lab results are typically available within a few days. Results are sent online or through a mobile app for at-home kits, often accompanied by an option for professional consultation if necessary.
Hepatitis B test results are interpreted in combination to provide a comprehensive view of your infection or immunity status.
| anti-HBs | IgM- anti-HBc | HBs Ag | anti- HBc | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Negative |
Negative |
Negative |
Negative |
No past or current infection; no immunity. |
|
Positive |
Not performed |
Negative |
Negative |
Immunity due to vaccination |
|
Negative |
Positive |
Positive |
Positive |
No immunity due to the last infection |
|
Negative |
Negative |
Positive |
Positive |
Chronic infection |
If you are experiencing symptoms or believe you may have been exposed to hepatitis B, contact our Health Screening Clinic to book your Hepatitis B test. Early detection and management are key to protecting your health and that of others.
While no test is perfect, hepatitis A testing is widely considered the most reliable method for detecting an active hepatitis A infection or confirming immunity. A positive result for IgM antibodies generally indicates a current infection. However, in individuals without symptoms, the presence of IgM antibodies may sometimes suggest a previous infection or a case without symptoms.
Hepatitis A testing requires a blood sample to detect antibodies against the virus. Blood is usually drawn from a vein in the arm or the back of the hand.
When prescribed by a doctor, the sample is typically collected in a clinic or medical facility and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
When receiving your hepatitis A test results, consider discussing the following with your doctor:
Testing hepatitis A at home is not currently available in most regions. The test requires phlebotomy(blood draw), which a medical practitioner must do in a clinical or laboratory setting.
It depends on your test result. If symptoms are drastic, further tests may be necessary to monitor liver function and assess treatment options. If you test negative for hepatitis A and lack immunity, your doctor may recommend vaccination to prevent future infection.
Costs for hepatitis A testing may vary depending on your health insurance plan. In most cases, the test is covered by insurance if ordered by a doctor, though co-pays or deductibles may apply. If you do not have insurance or if your plan doesn't cover the test, you can discuss the cost with your healthcare provider, including office visit fees, blood draw charges, and laboratory testing fees.