The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) test is frequently used to diagnose hepatitis B, a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Hepatitis B is widespread, affecting approximately one-third of the world's population and leaving 300 million with chronic infection. Due to the high risk of mortality, early detection through this test is essential. The HBsAg ECLIA (electrochemiluminescence immunoassay analyser) test detects the Hepatitis B surface antigen in the blood, aiding in identifying whether the infection is acute (recent) or chronic (long-standing).

As one of the five hepatitis viruses (A, B, C, D, and E), HBV is transmitted through blood, vaginal fluids, and semen. Symptoms of hepatitis B can emerge several months after infection. While the virus usually resolves within six months in many cases, a small number of adults and a larger percentage of children, especially infants, may develop chronic infections. These chronic infections can lead to significant liver issues, including fibrosis (development of scar tissue in the liver), cirrhosis (severe scarring of the liver that impairs its function), or liver cancer.

In Delhi, Orange Health Labs provides the option to perform the HBsAg test at home, ensuring you receive timely and accurate results conveniently. Early detection through this test is crucial for effective treatment and preventing further transmission of hepatitis B.

Preparing beforehand for the HBsAg hepatitis test is essential for achieving precise results and a trouble-free testing procedure:

• Pre-requisites

There is no special preparation needed for the HBsAg ECLIA test; you can eat and drink normally unless your doctor advises otherwise.

• Best Time to Get Tested

The HBsAg blood test can be done at any time, but immediate testing is crucial if you have symptoms of hepatitis B or suspect exposure to the virus.

• Who Should Take the Test

This test is recommended for those showing symptoms of hepatitis B, such as extreme fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal discomfort. It is also suggested for individuals with risk factors like blood exposure in healthcare, needle sharing, sexual contact with an infected person, or being born to a hepatitis B-positive mother. Those already diagnosed may need this test to monitor disease progression and treatment response.

• Cautions Before Taking the HBsAg Test

Make sure to inform the doctor who is treating you about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are using, as these might affect the results. Additionally, mention any recent vaccinations or illnesses that could impact the test outcome.

The HBsAg ECLIA test is vital if there is a suspicion of a liver infection caused by HBV. It is especially necessary if you show signs of hepatitis B, which often develop slowly and may not be evident until the infection is severe or chronic. Many people suffer from minor flu-like symptoms or have no symptoms at all.

Common symptoms include:

• Fever

• Nausea

• Loss of appetite

• Extreme fatigue

• Muscle aches

• Abdominal pain

• Skin and eye yellowing (jaundice)

• Dark urine

• Swelling and confusion (in severe cases)

This test is also critical for individuals who have risk factors for hepatitis B infection, including:

• Working in healthcare settings with blood exposure

• Being born to a mother who is infected with the virus

• Sharing needles for IV drug use

• Having sex with a person who is HBV positive

• Coexisting with an HBV-infected person

• Engaging in sexual activity with other males

• Receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant (although less common due to stringent screening practices)

If you are already diagnosed with hepatitis B, this test may be repeated to monitor the progress and effectiveness of your treatment.

Understanding your HBsAg blood test results is critical for assessing your health condition and the next steps in treatment. Interpretation of the test results can be done as follows:

It’s important to note that a negative result does not confirm that you haven’t been exposed to or infected by the hepatitis B virus. HBsAg levels might not be detectable in the early or later phases of the infection.