What is the purpose of this test?
The LetsGetChecked - Hepatitis B & C Blood Spot Test Kit is a reliable and easy-to-use at-home testing kit designed to detect infections caused by the Hepatitis B virus and Hepatitis C virus. Both types of hepatitis infections can lead to serious health complications if left untreated, so early detection is key. The test kit includes all the necessary equipment to collect a small sample of blood from a finger prick and is designed to ensure that the sample is collected safely and effectively. The collected blood sample is then sent to a CLIA-certified lab for analysis. The lab uses highly sensitive and accurate testing methods to detect the presence of the hepatitis B or C virus in the sample.
Once the testing is complete, the results are made available in an easy-to-read report that can be accessed securely online. The report includes detailed information about the test results, including whether the test detected the presence of the virus, and what the next steps should be if a positive result is obtained. The report also includes information about the symptoms and complications of hepatitis, as well as advice on how to prevent the spread of the virus.
The LetsGetChecked - Hepatitis B & C Blood Spot Test Kit is an excellent option for those who may be at risk of hepatitis infections but are unable or unwilling to visit a doctor's office. It is a convenient and confidential way to get tested for hepatitis from the comfort of your own home. The test is available to anyone, regardless of whether they have any symptoms or not. It is recommended that anyone who believes they may be at risk of hepatitis infections should get tested regularly to ensure early detection and treatment if needed.
The LetsGetChecked - Hepatitis B & C Blood Spot Test Kit screens for the following infections:
Hepatitis B - Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. The testing offered by LetsGetChecked looks for the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). This can be found in high levels during acute or chronic hepatitis B infection. HBsAg usually means that the person is infectious. In some cases, it can also be found within 30 days after hepatitis B vaccination. This test cannot provide a diagnosis; further testing will be required if you receive a reactive test result.
Hepatitis C - Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus caused by the hepatitis C virus. The test offered by LetsGetChecked looks for antibodies to the hepatitis C virus. , Antibodies to hepatitis C are a sign that someone has been infected with the hepatitis C virus at some point. Once people have been infected with hepatitis C, they will always have antibodies in their blood. This is true if they have cleared the virus, have been cured, or still have the virus in their blood. This test cannot provide a diagnosis; further testing will be required if you receive a reactive test result.
The testing provided by LetsGetChecked cannot provide a diagnosis, and further testing will be required if you receive a reactive test result.
Benefits of the LetsGetChecked - Hepatitis B & C Blood Spot Test Kit:
- Convenience: At-home testing kits provide the convenience of being able to collect a blood sample in the comfort of your own home, avoiding the need to visit a healthcare facility.
- Privacy: Some individuals may prefer the privacy of conducting health tests at home rather than in a clinic. At-home testing allows individuals to manage their health in a more discreet manner.
- Ease of Use: LetsGetChecked and similar companies design their kits to be user-friendly, providing clear instructions on how to collect the sample. This can make the testing process more accessible to individuals who may be uncomfortable with traditional testing methods.
- Time-Saving: At-home testing can save time by eliminating the need for travel to a healthcare facility and waiting for an appointment.
- Access to Testing: For those in remote or underserved areas, at-home testing can provide access to important health screenings that may not be readily available locally.
- Regular Monitoring: At-home testing kits may be used for regular monitoring of certain health conditions, allowing individuals to track changes in their health over time.
When should I order a Hepatitis B & C Blood Spot Test Kit?
Individuals may order this test kit if they have experienced symptoms related to a Hepatitis B and C infection. Common signs or symptoms of a Hepatitis B and C infection include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Joint pain
- Dark urine
- Pale-colored stools
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Fever
- Headache
- Itchy skin
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen)
- Spider angiomas (small, spider-like blood vessels on the skin)
Preparation:The sample must be collected before 10am on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday and returned on the same day.
Test Results:
2-5 business days once the lab receives the specimen. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
