HBsAg Test

Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Qualitative Blood Test measures the Hepatitis B infection in the blood. It is recommended as an initial diagnostic test for Hepatitis B infection.

What is hepatitis B infection and hepatitis B surface antigen?

Hepatitis B infection is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This infection can spread from one person to another through contact with infected blood and body fluids. Common symptoms of this infection are dark urine, fatigue, fever, abdominal discomfort, weakness, loss of appetite, yellowing of eyes, joint and muscle pain. Symptoms usually appear in about one to four months after the occurrence of infection.

Normally, in most of the cases, this infection does not last for a long time. Your immune system fights it off within a few months. However, if you have it for over six months, you are called a carrier. Mostly, adults may recover from this infection completely within a short period. Infants and children are more likely to develop a long-lasting infection.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) has proteins on its surface. These proteins are called hepatitis B surface antigens. It is found in your blood within several weeks (4 weeks) after the infection starts. Presence of hepatitis B surface antigens causes the immune system to make antibodies. Therefore, the hepatitis B surface antigens are the first marker for determining Hepatitis B infection.

Why HBsAg test is performed?

This test is performed to assess the HBsAg levels during the phases of Hepatitis B infection. It is recommended as an initial diagnostic test for Hepatitis B infection. This test helps to assess the Hepatitis B infection. This test, in combination with other Hepatitis B virus DNA tests, helps the doctor to evaluate and monitor individuals receiving treatment for Hepatitis B infection.

How to prepare for HBsAg test?