Why would I need the Hepatitis A, B & C Test?
This panel is recommended for several reasons:
Screening for viral hepatitis: For individuals at risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers, those with a history of intravenous drug use, or individuals with multiple sexual partners.
Pre-employment or occupational screening: Many healthcare and public health positions require proof of immunity or absence of infection.
Prenatal screening: Pregnant women may be screened to prevent transmission to the baby.
Symptom evaluation: If you have symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, dark urine, or elevated liver enzymes, this test can help identify whether hepatitis is the cause.
Post-exposure screening is for individuals who may have been exposed to one of these viruses (e.g., through needlestick injury or contact with an infected individual).
What do the results of the Hepatitis A, B & C Test indicate?
Hepatitis A (IgM) Test:
Positive result: Indicates a recent or active infection with hepatitis A.
Negative result: No recent infection is detected.
Hepatitis B Test:
HBsAg Positive: Indicates an active hepatitis B infection.
HBsAg Negative: No active infection is detected. For a more detailed interpretation, additional markers such as anti-HBs (indicating immunity from past infection or vaccination) and anti-HBc (showing past or chronic infection) may be included.
Hepatitis C (Anti-HCV) Test:
Positive result: Indicates past or present exposure to HCV. An additional HCV RNA test may be needed to confirm if the infection is active.
Negative result: Indicates no exposure to HCV.