Hepatitis A Total (IgM - IgG) Testing

$59.00

Description:

This test can be used to look for both recent and past exposure to Hepatitis A.  It can also be used to verify immunity to Hep A.  Hepatitis 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

The Hepatitis A Total test looks for 2 types of antibodies.  IgM antibodies develop soon after exposure and fade away after a couple of months.  IgG antibodies develop later and remain present in the body.  The presence of IgM antibodies indicates a recent exposure to the virus and the possibility of an acute infection.  Typically, IgG antibodies provide immunity to Hep A for people who have had a past infection or have received a vaccination.  

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.   

This test is not able to differentiate between the types of Hep A antibodies.  A positive result may indicate a recent infection or immunity from vaccination or clinical recovery.  Patients are concerned about a recent exposure to Hep A or are currently experiencing symptoms may wish to order the Hepatitis A IgM Abs test.

Turnaround time for the Hepatitis A Total 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.  The Hepatitis A IgG antibodies may begin to develop 2 weeks after the IgM antibodies increase to a high level.  IgG antibodies may persist indefinitely.

Requirements:

The hepatitis A total testing does not have any special requirements.

Categories:

• Hepatitis
• Immunity
• Infectious Diseases
• Liver Diseases
• Military
• Prenatal
• STD
• Titer