Things you Should Know About the Hepatitis Blood Test

Things you Should Know About the Hepatitis Blood Test

Does this analysis have other names?
HbsAg, HbcAB IgM, HA AB IgM, Hep C AB, Hep B surface antigen, Hepatitis B virus core IgM antibody, Hepatitis A IgM antibody, Hepatitis C antibodies.

What is this analysis?
It is a panel of blood tests that detects if you have a hepatitis virus infection. These tests detect whether your body has made antibodies against a hepatitis virus or parts of a specific virus.

Hepatitis, which affects the liver, is commonly caused by one of several hepatitis viruses. Hepatitis A, B, and C viruses are especially likely to cause liver damage. These infect people through different routes and cause varying degrees of liver problems.

Hepatitis A is spread by coming into contact with contaminated faeces. You can also get it through sexual intercourse, eating food prepared by an infected person who did not wash their hands after using the bathroom, through contaminated food or water, or by putting an object that was in contact with stool in their mouth. of an infected person. This test panel detects if your body made the IgM antibody to fight this virus. Hepatitis A infection usually clears up without treatment after a few weeks. If your symptoms continue, you will need to see your healthcare provider again.

Hepatitis B is spread by contact with infected body fluids, including semen and blood. It can also be spread through sexual intercourse or unsterilized hypodermic needles or tattoo kits. The test panel measures a viral substance called a surface antigen (HBsAg). This virus can cause a long-lasting infection.

Hepatitis C is spread by contact with the blood of an infected person through sexual intercourse or tattoo kits or non-sterile hypodermic needles. This test detects if your body has made the IgG antibody to fight the hepatitis C virus. Hepatitis C infections usually become long-lasting. If you are looking for a hepatitis blood test, please contact www.broadwaypharmacy.co.uk.

Why should I have this test done?
You may have this test if your doctor suspects that you have hepatitis caused by a virus. Depending on the type of infection, your symptoms may include:

●     Jaundice or yellowish skin and whites of the eyes

●     Fatigue

●     Pale coloured stools

●     Dark coloured urine

●     Upset stomach

●     Weight loss

●     Unusual bleeding and bruising

●     Fever

●     Abdominal pain

●     Swelling in the abdomen and lower legs

●     Loss of appetite

●     Visible blood vessels on the skin

●     Confusion in extreme illness

What other tests could you do along with this one?
Your healthcare provider may order other tests to help diagnose viral hepatitis. They may include liver function tests, such as:

●     Alanine aminotransferase or ALT

●     Aspartate aminotransferase or AST

●     Gamma-glutamyltransferase or GGT

●     Albumin

●     Bilirubin

●     Prothrombin time (PT)

Liver function tests check for the presence of enzymes in your blood that indicates liver problems. They also test your liver's ability to make certain substances and how well your liver filters your blood.

You may need additional tests to look for viral DNA or RNA.

How is this analysis performed?
For this test, a blood sample is required, which is drawn through a needle that is placed into a vein in your arm.

Does this analysis involve any risk?
Taking a blood sample with a needle carries risks including bleeding, infection, bruising, or feeling dizzy. When your arm is pricked with the needle, you may feel a slight stinging or pain. Afterwards, the site may be slightly sore.

What things could affect my test results?
Having had a hepatitis A infection can give a false-positive result. This means that the results show that you have an infection even though you may not.

How do I prepare for this test?
You do not need to prepare for this test. However, talk to your healthcare provider about your risk factors for hepatitis infection. Also, make sure your doctor knows all the medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs and any illicit drugs you may be using.