HBsAg

The HBsAg test is a blood test used to detect the presence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) in the blood and diagnose hepatitis B. If the person has been infected with the hepatitis B virus in the past or has had a recent infection, he will have HBsAg in his blood. It is also used to determine if a person is immune to the virus or not, and to keep an eye on the treatment for chronic hepatitis B infection to check for its effectiveness. The test results can also determine if someone is contagious and if they require further medical evaluation or treatment.

HBsAg is an abbreviation that stands for Hepatitis B Surface Antigen. HBsAg is a protein found on the surface of the hepatitis B virus, and this protein can be detected by the test hepatitis B surface antigen. It is used as a marker for the presence of the virus and is often used in blood tests to diagnose hepatitis B infection.

What Is the HBsAg Test Used For?

The HBsAg test is used for:

• Diagnosing Hepatitis B infection
• Monitoring the progression of chronic Hepatitis B
• Determining immunity against Hepatitis B as a result of vaccination of previous infection
• Screening blood donors for the presence of hepatitis B virus to prevent transmission
• Monitoring at-risk populations such as healthcare workers, sexually active individuals, and injection drug users

When Should I Get The HBsAg Test?

Consider getting an HBsAg test if you:

• Have symptoms of Hepatitis B infection, such as fatigue, abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or joint pain
• Have had unprotected sex or with someone who has Hepatitis B
• Have recently used injections of drugs
• Are planning for pregnancy
• Are already pregnant
• Have a positive family history of Hepatitis B
• Have recently traveled to an area with a high incidence of Hepatitis B
• Have undergone a recent blood transfusion
• Have received an organ transplant in the past

HBsAg Test Normal Range

A normal value for HBsAg (Hepatitis B Surface Antigen) is negative. It means that no HbsAg was detected in the blood, indicating that the person is not infected with the hepatitis B virus.

A positive result indicates the presence of HBsAg in the blood and suggests an ongoing or past infection with the hepatitis B virus. Further testing, such as a Hepatitis B core antibody test, is usually performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of infection.

A healthcare professional can provide the most accurate interpretation of test results.

How Is An HBsAg Test Conducted?

The procedure for an HBsAg test is similar to any other blood test. The healthcare provider will collect a blood sample from your arm. Your blood will be stored in a vial or a test tube. You might feel little to no pain. Make sure to apply slight pressure at the puncture site to prevent bleeding.

What Are The Risks Of An HBsAg Test?

As such, there are no risks associated with an HBsAg test. However, you may experience mild pain or discomfort at the puncture site. It might be accompanied by a bruise sometimes. You can apply a cold compress at the site to lower pain and inflammation.

In rare cases, when blood is withdrawn, you might experience:

• Dizziness
• Excessive bleeding
• Infection at the puncture site

How Long Does It Take To Get The Result Of the HBsAg Test?

Generally, it does not take too long for the HBsAg results to come. It might take one to two days from blood withdrawal for the HBsAg test results to come.