Hepatitis B Ag Test
2,400 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
Anti-HAV, IgM, Antibody to Hepatitis A Virus, IgM, HAVAb, IgM
Purpose
The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test is a blood test used to detect the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen, a marker of active Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, whether acute or chronic. This test is essential for diagnosing Hepatitis B, monitoring disease progression, and identifying carriers who can transmit the virus.
It is particularly important for screening pregnant women to assess the risk of mother-to-child transmission, allowing timely intervention to protect the newborn.
The test can be done alongside Hepatitis B Core Antibody (anti-HBc), Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (anti-HBs), Hepatitis B e Antigen (HBeAg), Liver function tests (LFTs), HBV DNA test (viral load).
These tests help provide a complete picture of the infection status, immunity, and potential infectivity of the patient.
Patient Preparation
The patient should not be taking a biotin supplement for at least 72 hours before sample collection.
Samples
13 mL (minimum 1.5 mL) Serum or plasma. Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube (preferred), or lavender-top (EDTA) tube. If the sample is not collected in a gel-barrier tube, separated plasma or serum should be transferred to a plastic transport tube. Samples are stable at room temperature and refrigeration for two weeks.
Reference Range
Negative
Results Turnaround
1-2 days after sample collection.
Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators
A positive HBsAg result indicates an active Hepatitis B infection, which can be acute or chronic.
In acute infections, symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain lasting several weeks.
However, many individuals, especially children, may show no symptoms at all.
In chronic cases, the virus can remain in the body long-term and may lead to serious liver complications such as liver failure, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.
A negative HBsAg test typically means there is no active infection, though further testing may be needed to confirm immunity or previous exposure.
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