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    What is Anti-HBc IgM Test?

    The Anti-HBc IgM test is a blood test that identifies the presence of IgM antibodies in the blood, which are produced by the immune system in response to a recent infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily targets the liver. When the body is exposed to this virus, the immune system produces antibodies to fight it. During the initial phase of HBV infection, the body produces a specific antibody known as IgM against the hepatitis B core (HBc) antigen. This antibody typically appears shortly after symptoms emerge and can remain detectable in the bloodstream for up to 6 months post-infection.

    IgM anti-HBc antibodies appear rapidly in cases of acute hepatitis B infection and can stay detectable for weeks to months, suggesting a recent infection (usually within the past 6 months). While HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen) is commonly present, it may not always be detectable in some instances. During an acute infection, elevated liver enzymes are also frequently observed, and IgM anti-HBc can still be found even after HBsAg has disappeared from the bloodstream. A non-reactive result rules out a recent infection, although it does not exclude chronic hepatitis B. In individuals with chronic HBV infection, IgM antibodies may show up temporarily if the condition becomes active. This test is particularly valuable in differentiating acute HBV infection from other types of hepatitis.

    The Anti-HBc IgM test is especially useful for those showing symptoms of liver dysfunction or individuals who may have had potential exposure to hepatitis B, enabling early detection and management.

    Anti-HBc IgM Test Parameters

    The Anti-HBc IgM test measures a single parameter: the presence of IgM antibodies against the hepatitis B core (HBc) antigen in the blood. These antibodies are produced in the early stages of an infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV), serving as a key indicator of recent infection, typically within the last six months. A positive result for Anti-HBc IgM suggests a recent acute HBV infection, while its detection in individuals with chronic HBV may indicate a flare-up or reactivation of the virus.

    Antibodies are critical components of the immune response to HBV. Upon infection, the immune system generates specific antibodies to combat the virus. There are two types of anti-HBc antibodies: IgM and IgG. IgM antibodies emerge during acute or recent infections and decrease after approximately six months. In contrast, IgG antibodies persist in the bloodstream for life, signalling past or chronic HBV infection.

    The Anti-HBc IgM test is particularly useful for diagnosing acute hepatitis B, especially when symptoms are present or recent exposure to the virus is suspected.

    Anti-HBc IgM Test Preparation

    Before you schedule the Anti-HBc IgM test, keep the following details in mind:

    Prerequisites: Fasting is not required prior to the Anti-HBc IgM test.

    Best Time to Get Tested: There is no specific time of day recommended for the Anti-HBc IgM test. You can book your test at a time that suits your schedule.

    Who Should Get an Anti-HBc IgM Test: The test is particularly recommended for individuals displaying symptoms of hepatitis, those with abnormal liver function test results, individuals who have been recently exposed to hepatitis B, people living in areas with high hepatitis B prevalence, or blood donors requiring screening.

    Cautions Before Taking Anti-HBc IgM Test: No special precautions are necessary before undergoing the Anti-HBc IgM test.

    Why Take the Anti-HBc IgM Test?

    The Anti-HBc IgM test is essential for:

    ● People exhibiting symptoms of hepatitis, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), extreme fatigue, fever, poor appetite, abdominal discomfort, nausea, and joint pain.

    ● Individuals with liver function test results that raise concern about potential hepatitis B infection.

    ● Those who have been recently exposed to the hepatitis B virus, for example, through contact with an infected individual or in healthcare environments.

    ● Individuals residing in areas where hepatitis B is common, where it is important to differentiate between acute and chronic hepatitis B infections for accurate diagnosis.

    ● Blood donors, who undergo this test as part of standard blood bank procedures to ensure the safety of blood transfusions.

    The Anti-HBc IgM test plays a critical role in detecting recent hepatitis B infections, allowing for prompt diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention.

    FAQs on Anti-HBc IgM Test in Gurgaon

    The cost of the Anti-HBc IgM test in Gurgaon is ₹1130. This amount includes the benefit of home sample collection, which will be conducted within 60 minutes after your booking is confirmed. You can expect to receive the test results within 78 hours after your sample is collected.

    Yes, home sample collection for the Anti-HBc IgM test is available in Gurgaon through Orange Health Labs. A professional eMedic will visit your home within 60 minutes from the time of booking, depending on available slots.

    The Anti-HBc IgM test is useful in diagnosing and determining the stage of hepatitis B infection. It is particularly useful for detecting recent acute infections (less than 6 months old) and for identifying the shift in chronic hepatitis B carriers from inactive to active infection. A positive test result suggests recent infection, while a non-reactive result excludes recent infection but does not rule out chronic hepatitis B.

    Fasting is not required prior to the Anti-HBc IgM test. However, it is always a good idea to follow any specific instructions given by your doctor.

    Booking your Anti-HBc IgM test with Orange Health Labs is easy. Follow these simple steps:

    Find the test: Visit the Orange Health website and search for the Anti-HBc IgM test.

    Confirm your booking: Enter your details, choose a time that works best for you, and confirm your booking.

    Sample collection: Once confirmed, a qualified eMedic will be dispatched to collect your sample at your convenience.

    Laboratory processing: Your blood sample will be processed at an accredited, ICMR-certified laboratory.

    Receive your results: Test results for Anti-HBc IgM will be shared with you via email or WhatsApp within 78 hours following sample collection.

    Normal Anti-HBc IgM test results are negative when they are less than 5 PEIU/ml, which indicates that there has been no recent infection. If the result falls between 5 and 9 PEIU/ml, it is considered equivocal, meaning the infection may either be in the early stages or resolving. A positive result (≥ 10 PEIU/ml) points to a recent acute hepatitis B infection.

    Once you book the Anti-HBc IgM test, an eMedic will visit your location to collect the sample within 60 minutes of booking confirmation. You will receive your results within 78 hours after the sample has been collected.

    The frequency of the Anti-HBc IgM test depends on your specific health conditions and individual needs.

    The Anti-HBc IgM test measures a single parameter: the presence of IgM antibodies against the hepatitis B core antigen (Anti-HBc IgM) in your blood.

    Orange Health offers home sample collection for the Anti-HBc IgM test throughout Gurgaon, including prominent locations such as DLF Phase 1, DLF Phase 2, DLF Phase 3, DLF Phase 4, DLF Phase 5, Sector 14, Sector 15, Sector 21, Sector 22, Sector 23, Sector 24, Sector 29, Sector 31, Sector 40, Sector 42, Sector 43, Sector 45, Sector 46, Sector 50, Sector 51, Sector 52, Sector 53, Sector 54, Sector 55, Sector 56.

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    References

    1. HBc IgM (Anti-Hepatitis B core IgM) | Newfoundland & Labrador Public Health Laboratory.  Available from:  https://publichealthlab.ca/reportingname/hbc-igm-anti-hepatitis-b-core-igm/
    2. CDC. Clinical Testing and Diagnosis for Hepatitis B.  Available from:  https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis-b/hcp/diagnosis-testing/index.html
    3. Hepatitis B Foundation. Hepatitis B Foundation: Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results. https://www.hepb.org/prevention-and-diagnosis/diagnosis/understanding-your-test-results/  Available from:  https://www.hepb.org/prevention-and-diagnosis/diagnosis/understanding-your-test-results/
    4. Hepatitis B Foundation. Hepatitis B Foundation: Hepatitis B Blood Tests.  Available from:  https://www.hepb.org/prevention-and-diagnosis/diagnosis/hbv-blood-tests/
    5. Clinical Significance and Remaining Issues of Anti-HBc Antibody and HBV Core-Related Antigen. Diagnostics.  Available from:  https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/14/7/728
    6. Hepatitis Panel: MedlinePlus Lab Test Information.  Available from:  https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/hepatitis-panel/