Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test - Confirmation
Understanding Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test - Confirmation
What is Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test - Confirmation?
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) test is used to determine the presence of Hepatitis B viral infection by measuring the amount of HBsAg in the blood. Hep B virus spreads mainly through body fluids or unsafe sexual intercourse. Hep B antigen is expressed on the surface of Hepatitis B virus and its detection is a preliminary test to check the infection at an earliest possible stage. A positive
Hep B surface antigen test requires further testing to determine the level of infection in the body. In some cases uncontrolled levels of Hep B infection can lead to chronic hepatitis infection and liver cirrhosis. Immunocompromised patients and infants are more prone to develop severe symptoms of chronic hepatitis.
What is Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test - Confirmation used for?
To detect Hepatitis B virus infection in patients having symptoms suggestive of Hepatitis
To screen for Hepatitis B infection following accidental exposure to HBV e.g. in healthcare workers. Repeat testing is recommended after 6 weeks post exposure
To screen for Hepatitis B infection in individuals who are at risk of acquiring infection like IV drug users, sex workers, hemodialysis patients, prisoners, etc.
To screen for Hepatitis B infection during pregnancy to prevent transmission of infection from mother to child
Interpreting Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test - Confirmation results
Interpretations
A "Reactive" or "Positive" HBsAg test result means that the person is infected with Hepatitis B virus. If a person tests “positive,” then further testing is required to determine if this is a new “acute” infection or a “chronic” Hepatitis B infection or chronic HBV carrier state.
A "Non-reactive" or "Negative" HBsAg test result means that the person is not infected with Hepatitis B virus.
Other tests
