Hepatitis tests
Blood take service 5.00€
Tests
Tests for viral hepatitis are not a single comprehensive test. Different markers help determine whether a person has been exposed to the hepatitis virus, whether the infection may be active, or whether immunity has developed after a past infection or vaccination. Serological and molecular tests for hepatitis A, B, and C can be performed.
Hepatitis B markers
HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc, HBeAg, and HBV DNA address different questions. For example, HBsAg may indicate an existing hepatitis B infection, anti-HBs – immunity, while anti-HBc helps evaluate past or current contact with the virus. A combination of results is more informative than a single isolated marker.
Hepatitis C tests
The anti-HCV antibody test shows whether the body has ever responded to the hepatitis C virus. A positive antibody result does not confirm that the virus is currently present in the body – HCV RNA is tested to determine active infection. After a very recent infection, antibodies may not yet have formed.
If the test is performed after possible contact with the hepatitis virus, due to pregnancy, changes in liver markers, or before treatment, the appropriate combination and timing of tests may vary. It is best to evaluate the results together, rather than as separate 'positive/negative' answers.