AN OVERVIEW
About HBsAg test
Why is the HBsAg test done?
The HBsAg test can be used to diagnose the hepatitis B virus. Usually, people who have got infected with the chronic hepatitis B infection experience no symptoms. Others, who have been diagnosed with acute hepatitis B may develop symptoms 2 to 5 months after being exposed to the virus.
These signs and symptoms may include:
- Dark yellow color urine
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Grey or clay-colour stools
- Pain in joints
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Pain in abdomen
- Yellowing of eyes and skin
Thus, if you experience the above mentioned symptoms, your doctor may advise you to go for the HBsAg test.
What does the HBsAg test measure?
The HBsAg test measures the amount of hepatitis B surface antigen present in a blood sample. This test and the hepatitis B virus DNA (HBV DNA) testing are used by the doctors to check the progress of the peginterferon alfa-2a therapy. If effective, the therapy may be stopped after 24 weeks.
Risks/side effects of HBsAg test
No side effects are associated with the HBsAG test. However, you may experience some pain in the area from where the blood is taken, which can last for a few days.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs
What is Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)?
Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus. It can lead to a liver infection.
HBV is transmitted by coming into contact with bodily fluids during sex, childbirth, etc. Sharing injection needles can also transmit the virus.
Acute or chronic hepatitis B infection can occur. The former is just a short-term infection. The recovery can happen within a few weeks or months without going for therapy.
Small number of those with acute hepatitis B develop chronic hepatitis B, a long-term infection that usually lasts for six months. Liver failure, liver cancer and liver damage can occur in those diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B.
The presence of HBsAg in the blood denotes that you have been infected with the virus and can transmit it to others as well.
When is the HBsAg Test performed?
HBsAg test is performed if you have been involved in the following situations:
- Got blood transfusions.
- Had unprotected sex with an infected partner.
- Came into contact with someone’s bodily fluids.
- Got a tattoo or acupuncture using contaminated needles.
- Shared needles for drug use.
- Shared personal goods (such as a toothbrush, razor, etc.) with someone who is infected with the virus.
- If your mother has hepatitis B.
How is the HBsAg test performed?
The HBsAg test is performed at a hospital, clinic, or laboratory. Home sample collection facilities are also available. A phlebotomist draws blood from your vein located in your arm using an injection needle.
How to prepare for the HBsAg Test?
No specific instructions are to be followed before going for the HBsAg test.
Can HBsAg be cured?
HBsAg cannot be cured but it can be prevented by taking a vaccine.
THINGS TO KNOW AFTER GETTING TESTED
Interpreting the HBsAg test results
The absence of hepatitis B surface antigen is shown by a non-reactive test.
Reactive testing, on the other hand, shows the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen. The test can also be used to monitor its levels. However, it cannot be used to distinguish between the different stages of hepatitis B virus infection. More testing is required to check whether the infection is “acute” or “chronic” hepatitis B.
Reference Range:
| RESULT IN mIU | REMARKS | INTERPRETATION |
| Less than 5 | Non-Reactive | Indicates absence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen |
| More than 5 | Reactive | Indicates presence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen |
HBsAg Test In Chandigarh
Starts from 150*
The hepatitis B surface antigen test (HBsAg test) is used to check whether or not someone has the hepatitis B virus. It is a blood test. You can go for the HBsAG test if you donate blood and semen, are pregnant, abuse drugs, are an organ donor or recipient, etc.
Read further to explore more about the HBsAg test in Chandigarh, including HBsAgtest price, preparation, side effects, results, etc.
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