H3 Viral Marker Profile (HIV, HbsAg, HCV) Test

H3 profile blood test is often done as a pre-operative test, antenatal care test, post needle stick injury or exposure to body fluid from a suspected case. This test is not done for babies and children up to 2 years born to HIV-positive mothers.

The H3 Viral Marker Profile by CLIA - Serum test is done to:

• Detect HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C viruses in patients.
• Confirm whether the patient has been exposed to any viruses such as HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
• To monitor the progression of HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C infection.
• To screen an individual who has not previously been tested but is suspected to be infected with one of these viruses.
• The H3 Viral Marker Profile test is done to detect HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C infections in patients, confirm whether the patient has been exposed to any of the viruses, and monitor the progression of the HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C infections.

During the H3 profile blood test blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

The H3 Viral Marker Profile by CLIA-Serum Test results for HIV, HCV and HBsAg are as follows:

HIV duo-reactive: Requires two tests with different antigens or different detection methods to diagnose.

HIV duo-negative: This could indicate recent exposure or no exposure. Repeat the test in two weeks to confirm. Early diagnosis can be done with RNA PCR 7 days after exposure.

HCV antibody detected: Patient is exposed. Use HCV RNA PCR to confirm acute infection.

HCV antibody not detected: Patient not infected or antibodies have not developed yet.

HBsAg detected: Patient believed to be infected. Confirmation is needed to prevent false positives. Persistence of HBsAg over 6 months indicates chronic infection.

HBsAg not detected: This could mean that the patient is in the window period or early infection stage. Anti-HBc IgM or HBV DNA detection may confirm the result.

The test measures Hepatitis B surface antigen (Hbs Ag), Hepatitis C virus antibody (HCV ab), HIV antibody and P24 antigen of HIV.

This is a blood test and requires no specific preparation. However, it's always a good idea to follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the testing facility.

Both hepatitis B and C are viral liver infections caused by distinct viruses.

• The hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes hepatitis B, which is transmitted by contact with contaminated blood or bodily fluids.
• The hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes hepatitis C, which is transmitted by contact with contaminated blood.

Both may cause severe liver damage, but hepatitis C has a higher chance of becoming chronic and leading to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

RNA PCR testing is a type of test used to detect the presence of virus RNA. PCR amplifies the virus's genetic material, allowing it to be detected even in very small amounts. This type of test is highly accurate and is used to diagnose active infections and monitor treatment progress.

The following people should do the H3 Viral Marker Profile test:

• Patients who are suspected of being infected with any one of the three viruses.
• Patients who have been exposed to one of the viruses.
• Individuals who are pregnant.
• Medical care providers caring for patients who are suspected to be infected or have been exposed to one of the viruses.

A blood test for the H3 profile is frequently performed before surgery, as part of antenatal care, following a needle stick injury. Babies and young children of HIV-positive moms should not do this test up to the age of two.

• H3 Viral Marker Profile HIV, HBsAg, HCV
• H3 Profile Blood Test
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus
• Hepatitis B Surface Antigen
• Hepatitis C Virus

The viral marker test, also known as the H3 viral marker profile test or Triple H Test, is a blood test that detects antibodies and antigens to some specific viruses, including HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. The viral marker test helps identify whether an individual has been exposed to these viruses.

The viral marker test, or the viral marker blood test, is essential for early diagnosis and treatment of HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C infections. Early detection can prevent the progression of these diseases and reduce the risk of transmission to others.

The viral marker test is a blood test used to detect specific markers for three major infections: Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV.

• Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg): The viral marker blood test detects the presence of the Hepatitis B Surface Antigen, a protein on the virus. A positive result can indicate that a person has an active Hepatitis B infection.
• Hepatitis C (HCV): For Hepatitis C, viral markers identify antibodies or viral components that show current or past infection.
• HIV Antibody (Rapid Card): The viral marker profile test detects antibodies produced by the immune system in response to HIV. A positive result in the viral marker test suggests exposure to the virus, but confirmatory tests are necessary to make a definitive diagnosis.

Reports of viral markers indicate whether infections like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or HIV are present or absent in your body.

• Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBSAG): A positive result means the Hepatitis B virus is present, and further tests may be required to assess the infection's stage and severity. A negative result of a viral marker blood test indicates the absence of Hepatitis B infection.
• Hepatitis C Virus (HCV): A positive result indicates the presence of the Hepatitis C virus, and further tests, such as a viral load measurement, may be necessary to assess the severity of the infection. A negative result of a viral marker test means no Hepatitis C infection.
• HIV Antibody (Rapid Card): A positive viral marker test result suggests an exposure to HIV, but confirmatory tests like Western blot or PCR are required for accurate diagnosis. A negative result of a viral marker test indicates no detectable HIV antibodies at the time of testing.

If the viral marker test results are positive, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend additional testing, such as viral load testing for Hepatitis B and C, to assess the severity of the infection. Your healthcare provider might also suggest other diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of action. Treatment options will vary depending on the specific virus identified but often include antiviral medications designed to manage the infection effectively. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure effective management of your health following a positive viral marker test result. Early intervention after a viral marker test can lead to better health outcomes, as proactive treatment strategies are vital in addressing any potential complications associated with the viral marker test findings.

The benefits of viral marker testing include early diagnosis and treatment of viral infections, prevention of disease progression, reduction in risk of transmission, and personalised treatment plans to manage the infection. Additionally, early detection through the viral marker test aids in monitoring treatment effectiveness.

No fasting is required before taking the viral marker test. However, it is advisable to follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider or the testing facility.

Yes, many diagnostic laboratories, including Metropolis Healthcare, offer a home sample collection services for the viral marker test. This convenient option allows individuals to have their blood samples collected by trained phlebotomists in the comfort of their homes, ensuring a safe and hassle-free experience.

The reports for the viral marker test are usually available within 8 hours depending on the day/time the sample is collected and processed.