Hepatitis Antigen Test For A, B, etc.

Overview:

Hepatitis is an inflammation and enlargement of the liver, usually due to hepatitis virus infection. The hepatitis antigen test is a series of blood tests used to detect and diagnose any infection caused by hepatitis virus strain A, B or C. To perform this test, a blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm.

When it’s done:

This test is performed when a person shows symptoms of liver damage such as:

• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue, fever
• Jaundice
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting or nausea
• Dark-coloured urine or pale-coloured stools

The test is also used to screen individuals who are at a high risk for developing hepatitis virus infection such as those:

• Infected with HIV
• With an elevated level of liver enzymes with an unknown cause
• With sexually transmitted diseases
• In close contact with patients infected with hepatitis
• Suffering from chronic liver disease
• Undergoing long-term dialysis

When to Avoid:

There is no specific condition when this should be avoided but one should consult his/her physician if he is taking any medication because it may interfere with the test results.

How to prepare:

No preparation is required.