Hepatitis A Antibody Blood Test, IgM

The Hepatitis A Antibody Blood Test, IgM, detects hepatitis A IgM antibodies to screen for an HAV infection or vaccination.

Description

What is the purpose of this test?

Order this Hepatitis A Antibody Blood Test, IgM, which detects hepatitis A IgM antibodies to screen for an HAV infection or vaccination. Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver, causing inflammation and enlargement. While many viruses can cause hepatitis, Hepatitis A is an acute infection that usually lasts a few weeks to several months and rarely causes chronic infection. However, in some severe cases, it can cause liver damage or failure. The virus is transmitted through fecal-oral contact, mainly through consuming contaminated food or water that hasn't been washed properly. Transmission of hepatitis A commonly occurs through consuming contaminated food or water.

Healthcare providers use hepatitis tests to diagnose the cause of hepatitis in patients who exhibit signs and symptoms of the disease. Once an individual recovers from hepatitis A, they become immune to future infections as their body develops protective antibodies. Hepatitis A testing can determine whether a person has these protective antibodies, either due to a previous infection or vaccination. The test screens hepatitis A IgM, substances produced by the immune system in response to infection with the hepatitis A virus.

When should I order a Hepatitis A Antibody Blood Test, IgM?

Individuals may order this test if they have experienced acute or chronic HAV infection symptoms. Common signs or symptoms of an HAV infection include:

• Dark-colored urine
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Gray- or clay-colored stools
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Joints or abdominal pain
• Jaundice