Hepatitis A (total IgG & IgM)

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that leads to liver inflammation and related issues. Testing for hepatitis A aims to identify signs of either a present or prior hepatitis A infection.

Hepatitis A is generally an acute infection, characterized by its sudden onset and lasting for a few weeks to several months. In most instances, this virus does not lead to chronic infection. However, in rare cases, hepatitis A can be severe, potentially causing liver damage or liver failure.

The virus primarily spreads through fecal-oral transmission, meaning that individuals become infected when they ingest fecal matter from someone with hepatitis A. Typically, transmission occurs through the consumption of contaminated, unwashed food or water.

What is the purpose of Hepatitis A testing?

A doctor may request hepatitis A testing for various reasons:

1. Diagnosing ongoing infection: Hepatitis tests are employed to identify the source of hepatitis in individuals displaying symptoms of the disease.
2. Evaluating immunity: Following recovery from a hepatitis A infection, the individual typically develops immunity against future infections, thanks to the production of protective antibodies. Hepatitis A testing can reveal the presence of these protective antibodies in individuals who have either recuperated from a previous infection or received a hepatitis A vaccination in the past.

What does the test measure?

Hepatitis A testing examines two types of antibodies, integral to the body's defence mechanism against viral infections. These antibodies associated with the hepatitis A virus can be detected through several tests:

1. Hepatitis A Immunoglobulin M (IgM anti-HAV) Antibody Test: When an individual is initially infected with hepatitis A, the body generates IgM anti-HAV antibodies. Typically, these antibodies become detectable approximately two weeks after the onset of symptoms and may persist for up to six months.
2. Hepatitis A Immunoglobulin G (IgG anti-HAV) Antibody Test: The IgG anti-HAV antibody test identifies IgG antibodies that emerge later in the course of the disease. IgG antibodies remain in the body for life, providing lasting protection against future hepatitis A virus infections. This test is employed to confirm prior HAV infections and may occasionally determine whether an individual has acquired immunity from a previous infection or vaccination.
3. Total Hepatitis A Antibody Test: The total HAV antibody test assesses both IgM and IgG antibodies, enabling the identification of both ongoing and past infections.

When should I get hepatitis A testing?

Doctors frequently suggest hepatitis testing based on a patient's medical history, symptoms, and physical examination.

In most cases, adults with hepatitis A experience symptoms approximately 28 days after infection, while symptoms are rare in children under six years old. Hepatitis A symptoms encompass:

1. Darkened urine
2. Diarrhea, accompanied by pale or clay-colored stool
3. Fatigue
4. Mild fever
5. Abdominal or joint discomfort
6. Nausea, vomiting, or reduced appetite
7. Yellowing of the eyes and skin, known as jaundice

Doctors may suggest hepatitis A testing for patients displaying symptoms and who have a documented exposure to HAV or are at an increased risk of contracting the disease. Factors that heighten the risk of hepatitis A exposure encompass:

1. Travel, particularly to regions like Asia, South America, Central America, Africa, and the Middle East.
2. Intravenous drug use and the use of illicit drugs.
3. Residing in a nursing home.
4. Employment in sectors related to healthcare, food, or sewage.
5. Consumption of raw shellfish, vegetables, and other foods.

In cases where patients exhibit symptoms of hepatitis A without a confirmed exposure to the virus, doctors may recommend an acute viral hepatitis panel. This panel tests for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C using the same blood sample.

What is the preparation for hepatitis A testing?

Usually, patients do not require specific preparations for hepatitis A testing. Similar to other blood tests, patients should discuss any prescription or over-the-counter medications they are currently taking with their healthcare provider. However, it's uncommon for medication adjustments to be necessary before undergoing a hepatitis A test.