At Fusion Healthcare, we know offer a hepatitis B blood test which aims to check for the presence of the hepatitis B antigen. This blood test plays a crucial role in detecting the Hepatitis B antigen and establishing acute or chronic Hepatitis B. This test allows for prompt diagnosis and provides vital information on your condition, allowing for informed patient management.
Blood test cost: £ 55.00
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. Hepatitis B is spread by blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. It is a major global health problem, with an estimated 296 million people worldwide living with chronic hepatitis B infection. The chance of getting it in the UK is low. At Fusion we offer a Hepatitis B vaccine for occupational health requirements or for individuals who may be travelling to a country where hepatitis B is more common. One of the key tools in diagnosing hepatitis B and monitoring its progression is through blood tests.
Antigen (HBsAG): HBsAG is the surface antigen which is present in the blood during a hepatitis B infection.
Surface anti-body (anti-HBs): This is the anti-body against the hepatitis B surface antigen. The presence of this anti-body indicates immunity to hepatitis B either through vaccination or past infection.
Preparing for the blood test
Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours leading up to the test, this makes it easier to draw the blood. Ensure you wear loose clothing that allows easy access to the arms and hands. If you are on anticoagulant medication, try to take it after the blood test has been completed.
The blood test and interpreting results
The Hepatitis B (HBsAG) blood test detects the presence of the hepatitis B surface antigen in the blood. A positive HBsAG result indicates acute or chronic hepatitis B infection. This test is usually the first test conducted as Hepatitis B screening.
The Hepatitis B surface anti-body (anti-HBs) test detects the presence the surface anti-body which fights against hepatitis B infection. A positive anti-HBs results indicates immunity to hepatitis B.
A combination of these blood tests can provide valuable information on a possible infection and your immunity status. This can be valuable if you a travelling to or from a country where hepatitis B is common, or if you need this information as part of occupational health requirements.
Below is an interpretation of the results of the two blood tests.
- HBsAg Positive, Anti-HBs Negative: Indicates acute hepatitis B infection.
- HBsAg Positive, Anti-HBs Positive: Indicates chronic hepatitis B infection.
- HBsAg Negative, Anti-HBs Positive: Indicates past hepatitis B infection with immunity.
- HBsAg Negative, Anti-HBs Negative: Indicates no current or past infection or immunity.
Recommendation
Hepatitis B blood tests are indispensable tools in the diagnosis, management, and monitoring of hepatitis B infection. The combination of the two hepatitis B blood tests on offer at Fusion Healthcare is invaluable in providing a comprehensive look at your hepatitis B infection and immunity status. These blood tests provide essential information for healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding patient care and treatment strategies. Understanding the significance of these tests empowers individuals to take proactive steps in managing their hepatitis B infection and overall liver health. If you haven’t been tested for hepatitis B, consider discussing it with your healthcare provider, especially if you belong to high-risk groups or are unsure of your vaccination status.
