Hepatitis A IgM Testing

$59.00

Description:

This test is used to screen for recent exposure to the Hepatitis A virus.  Hep A is a liver infection which is typically spread through exposure to contaminated fecal matter.  Some of the common ways Hep A is spread include

• Through contaminated drinking water
• Eating food prepared by someone who has not properly washed their hands
• Eating produce that has not been properly washed
• Eating seafood raised in contaminated water
• Through some forms of sexual contact
• Exposure to infected blood

This test looks for antibodies which develop shortly after infection.  IgM antibodies are usually detectable 3-4 weeks after exposure and fade out after a couple of months.  After recovery, IgG antibodies develop and often provide immunity from future infections. 

Hepatitis A is typically associated with flu-like symptoms.  Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, fever, fatigue, and joint pain.  In some cases, especially in younger children, Hep A may show no symptoms.    

The Hepatitis A IgM Abs test is typically ordered by people who are experiencing symptoms associated with Hep A or have reason to believe they may have been recently exposed to Hep A.  Patients wishing to test for past exposure to Hep A or to verify the status of their immunity to Hep A may wish to order the Hepatitis A Total test.

Turnaround time for the Hepatitis A IgM Abs test is typically 1 business day.

Incubation Period:

The incubation period for Hepatitis A IgM antibodies usually appears 3 to 4 weeks after an initial exposure and return to normal after about 8 weeks. 

Requirements:

This Hepatitis A testing does not have any special requirements.

Categories:

• Hepatitis
• Infectious Diseases
• Liver Diseases
• Men's Health
• STD
• Women's Health