HAV IgM Test (Hepatitis A Virus IgM Test)
52+ booked in last 3 daysHAV IgM Test Overview
Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It spreads through contaminated food or water, leading to symptoms like fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, jaundice, and dark urine. Treatment includes palliative care, resting, drinking plenty of liquids, and eating healthy foods to help relieve symptoms. For individuals suspected to have contracted Hepatitis A, undergoing the Hepatitis A Test or the HAV Test is a crucial starting point.
Reasons for Undergoing the HAV Test
Hepatitis A is known for its contagious nature. It spreads primarily via contact with an infected person's faeces or through ingestion of contaminated water or food. The HAV Test becomes crucial when symptoms become apparent. Here's why:
- Confirmation of Diagnosis: The HAV Test specifically detects the presence of HAV-specific IgM antibodies in your serum (part of your blood). These antibodies are produced by your immune system in response to a Hepatitis A infection. Thus, their presence confirms a diagnosis.
- Infection Staging: The level of IgM antibodies can also help gauge how far along the infection is.
- Prevention of Spread: Early detection through an HAV IgM Test helps prevent further spread of the virus by alerting others who may have been exposed.
List of Examinations Considered During the HAV Test
The HAV Test evaluates several parameters to diagnose and assess the infection:
- Anti-HAV IgM Antibodies: The presence of Immunoglobulin M antibodies indicates a recent or current Hepatitis A infection.
- Anti-HAV IgG Antibodies: The presence of Immunoglobulin G antibodies indicates past infection or vaccination, providing immunity.
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Measures enzymes and proteins such as ALT, AST, bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase to assess liver damage or inflammation.
- Symptoms Review: Evaluation of symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, and loss of appetite.
- Patient History: Information on recent travel, contact with infected individuals, or consumption of contaminated food or water.
- Physical Examination: Checking for signs of jaundice or liver enlargement.
These parameters help confirm the presence of Hepatitis A, determine the stage of infection, and guide appropriate treatment and management.
Home Collection for HAV Test Near You
How convenient would it be if you could have your Hepatitis A Blood Test done in the comfort of your home? A few diagnostic centres, such as Metropolis Healthcare, offer at-home blood tests. They send skilled phlebotomists to collect samples, ensuring a stress-free experience for patients.
HAV Test Price in Different Cities
The Hepatitis A test price may vary depending on your location within India. Generally, the cost ranges from ₹ 1,000 to ₹ 1,500. It's essential to check with local diagnostic centres for accurate pricing.
HAV IgM Test (Hepatitis A Virus IgM Test) Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the HAV IgM Test (Hepatitis A Virus IgM Test) with a clear pricing structure. The HAV IgM Test (Hepatitis A Virus IgM Test) Price in Salem is ₹ 1,100. We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
People who've been in close contact with someone infected with HAV are at high risk. This includes family members or those who share the same living space with the infected individual.
Yes. The Hepatitis A virus is robust and can survive outside the body for months, making it highly contagious.
A HAV IgM Test typically involves minimal risks, similar to any routine blood draw. These might include slight pain or bruising at the injection site.
No. Once you've recovered from Hepatitis A, you develop lifelong immunity against it.
No fasting is required before a Hepatitis A Blood Test unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.
Yes. Hepatitis A vaccine is available and is highly effective in preventing the infection.
This test specifically identifies the presence of hepatitis A virus-specific IgM antibodies in your blood. These antibodies show up in response to an acute or recent infection with HAV, helping diagnose hepatitis A and monitor its progression.
This test is done primarily to:
- Diagnose acute hepatitis A infection
- Determine immunity status against HAV
- Monitor recovery from hepatitis A
- Investigate suspected outbreaks of hepatitis A
- Manage treatment plans for hepatitis A patients
This test is usually recommended when you have:
- Symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain
- Recent exposure to someone with hepatitis A
- Work in healthcare or a daycare setting
- Travelling to regions with high hepatitis A prevalence
Abnormal results may indicate an acute hepatitis A infection.
Elevated levels suggest recent or ongoing infection with HAV.
Discuss results with your doctor for further evaluation and monitoring.
You will undergo a simple blood draw:
- A healthcare professional will collect a blood sample from your arm.
- The sample is processed in a lab using chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) method.
Prepare for this test by:
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before the test.
- Informing your doctor about any medications you're taking.
- Following your doctor's advice regarding any specific dietary restrictions.
- Consult your healthcare provider for specific requirements.
Other tests your doctor may recommend include:
- Hepatitis A total antibody test: To check overall immunity to hepatitis A.
- Liver function tests: To assess liver health and function.
- Hepatitis B and C tests: To rule out other viral hepatitis infections.
Hepatitis A IgM Test or HAV IgM Antibody Test
Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It spreads through contaminated food or water and can lead to symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Vaccination can prevent hepatitis A infection.
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We offer a comprehensive range of 4000+ clinical laboratory tests and profiles, which are used for prediction, early detection, diagnostic screening, confirmation and/or monitoring of the disease.