Hepatitis A surface antigen IgM

This test is used to detect the hepatitis B surface antigen, which may indicate current infection or the presence of the virus in the body. The test helps in diagnosing the active form of the disease and monitoring the infection.

🔍 What level is considered healthy?

• Absence of IgM antibodies to the hepatitis A virus in the blood, which typically indicates no active infection.

What does a positive result mean?

The presence of IgM antibodies indicates current, active infection with the hepatitis A virus. This suggests an acute form of the disease. The incubation period is between 2 to 6 weeks before symptoms appear. The infection is usually short-lived and resolves on its own but may cause unpleasant symptoms such as:

• Fatigue
• High fever
• Nausea
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Dark urine
• Pale stools

🧪 How can hepatitis A be transmitted?

Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, meaning the virus enters the mouth via fecal matter. Common modes of transmission include:

• Consumption of contaminated food or drinking water
• Poor hand hygiene, such as after using the bathroom
• Unsanitary food preparation conditions

How to use this test in practice:

The test is recommended if symptoms of hepatitis A are present, such as jaundice, fatigue, nausea, or fever. It is also useful for those with potential exposure to the virus or when there is an epidemiological risk.