WHAT DOES HBsAg MEASURE?
Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver caused by Hepatitis B virus. This test detects the presence of antigens and antibodies produced in response to an infection.
Hepatitis is an inflammation of liver. The type of hepatitis is named for the virus that cause it, for example, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Hepatitis D and Hepatitis E.
A positive or reactive HBsAg shows the presence of Hepatitis B virus in blood, and the person is infected. Hepatitis B antigen appears in the blood after 6-16 weeks following exposure to Hepatitis B virus. Persistence of Hepatitis B surface antigen for more than 6 months indicates a chronic HBV infection, which can damage the liver.
1. How is the test performed?
This test is performed on a blood sample. The blood is obtained from the vein and this is performed by a health care provider in the following way.
- Clean the skin
- Put an elastic band above the area
- Insert a needle into a vein (usually in the arm inside of the elbow or on the back of the hand)
- Pull the blood sample into a vial or syringe
- Take off the elastic band and remove the needle from the vein
2. What are the risks associated with this test?
Very few risks are associated with having blood drawn for an HBsAg test. However, if you have a bleeding disorder, you are at a slightly higher risk for excessive bleeding and hematoma (blood that accumulates under the skin).
There is a very small risk of infection at the puncture site. You may feel slightly faint or feel some soreness or pain at the site where your blood was drawn.
3. What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B may be ordered when someone has signs and symptoms associated with acute hepatitis. Some of these include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea, vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dark urine
- Pale Stools
- Joint pain
- Jaundice
4. What is the mode of transmission of Hepatitis B virus?
Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with contaminated food and body fluids. Sharing needles, syringes or equipment with contaminated blood can transfer the virus from one person to another.
5. How Can Hepatitis B be prevented?
The mode of prevention is through vaccination.