Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Screen, Qualitative
Other Name: HBsAg, HBV, Qualitative HBV surface antigen, Hepatitis-associated Antigen.
Purpose For HBsAg Screening Test: Diagnose acute or chronic hepatitis B infection and also be used to screen for hepatitis B infection in pregnant women to identify neonates who are at risk of acquiring hepatitis B.
Methodology: Immunochemiluminometric assay (ICMA)
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Screen, Qualitative | |
| Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Screen is a qualitative immunoassay for the detection of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen in human plasma or serum. | |
| Positive | 11 to 12 gm/dl |
| Negative | 13.5 to 17.5 gm/dl |
| Invalid | 12.0 to 15.5 gm/dl |
Hepatitis B is a serious viral infection that affects the liver. To detect the presence of this infection, medical professionals use a test called Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Screen, Qualitative. In this article, we’ll delve into what this test is, why it’s important, and what the results could mean.
What is HBsAg Screening?
The HBsAg screening is a blood test used to determine if someone has been infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBsAg is a protein that is present on the surface of the virus. When the body detects the presence of HBsAg, it usually means that the person is infected with HBV.
Why is HBsAg Screening Important?
Early detection of hepatitis B is crucial for several reasons:
1. Asymptomatic Nature
Hepatitis B can often be asymptomatic, meaning that people may not show any symptoms even though the virus is present. Regular screening can help identify infections that might otherwise go unnoticed.
2. Prevention of Transmission
Knowing your HBsAg status is essential for preventing the spread of the virus to others. If you’re HBsAg-positive, certain precautions can be taken to reduce the risk of transmission to close contacts.
3. Treatment Consideration
For those who test positive, early intervention can be initiated if necessary. Treatment can help manage the virus and prevent potential complications.
What Do the Results Mean?
The results of an HBsAg screening can be interpreted as follows:
HBsAg-Negative
A negative result means that the HBsAg protein was not detected in your blood. This generally indicates that you are not currently infected with hepatitis B. However, further testing may be recommended in certain cases.
HBsAg-Positive
A positive result suggests the presence of HBV infection. It’s important to note that a positive result doesn’t necessarily indicate chronic infection. Further tests will be needed to determine the stage of infection and whether treatment is required.
Conclusion
The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Screen, Qualitative, is a vital tool in the early detection and management of hepatitis B infections. Regular screening can provide important information about your infection status, enabling timely intervention and prevention of transmission.
All Pathalogy Test
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Complete Urine Examination
- Liver Function Test (LFT)
- Creatinine Serum
- Lipid Profile
- Kidney Function Test (KFT)
- Urine culture and Sensitivity Test
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Serum
- Serum Uric Acid – Serum
- Blood Urea Creatinine
- Total Beta – HCG (TB-HCG)
- ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
- Vitamin B12
- Electrolytes – Serum
- C – Reactive Protein (CRP) Test
- D – dimer test
- Glucose Fasting
- Glucose PP (Post Prandial)
- Rheumatoid Factor (RA)
- Hb Test
- Bilirubin Serum – Total/Direct/Indirect
- Cholesterol – Serum
- Serum Calcium Test
- Insulin (Fasting)
- Potassium Profile (Serum K)
- Sodium Profile (Serum Na)
- Testosterone Total
- Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT/SGPT) Serum
- Prolactin Test
- HMG (Complete Hemogram Test)
- Liver Function Test (LFT) With GGT
- Dengue NS1 Antigen – Elisa
- HBsAg Screening(Rapid)
- Prostatic Specific Antigen (PSA Total)
- TLC DLC MP
