Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)

HBsAg Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Test

Hepatitis B is a severe liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can be acute (short but severe) and lasts less than six months. Chronic (long-term) hepatitis lasts more than six months. Hepatitis B increases the likelihood of individuals developing cirrhosis, liver failure, and cancer. 

 

Common symptoms of Hepatitis B include: 

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
• Fever
• Dark urine
• Joint pain
• Weakness and fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting

 

People who can take the test and benefit from it include the following:

• Pregnant mothers
• Those who are from areas where the disease is common, like Asia, the Pacific Islands, Africa and Eastern Europe
• Those who are at high risk for the disease:
  • People who have multiple sexual partners
  • Infants with mothers who are infected
  • Men who have sex with other men 
  • Those whose jobs expose them to plenty of blood
  • Those who share needles with others during IV use 

 

The HBsAg test helps diagnose Hepatitis B. Understanding the importance of this test can play a vital role in effectively managing and preventing Hepatitis B.

 

Why Should I Take Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Test?

• Early Detection. By taking the test and receiving immediate treatment after detection, you can get a diagnosis and receive timely treatment. 
• Identification of Infected Individuals. Hepatitis B is a contagious disease and can spread through infected body fluids like blood, saliva, vaginal fluids, and semen and from a mother to her baby. By identifying individuals who are infected and at high risk, you can prevent the disease from further transmission. 
• Essential for high-risk individuals. Individuals who are at high risk for Hepatitis B include healthcare workers and people who have multiple sexual partners. Through monitoring, high-risk individuals can protect themselves from comorbidity, obtain a diagnosis, and avail of treatment.

 

HBsAg Test Procedure 

The test procedure will need one blood sample, part of a three-part hepatitis B panel. 

1. A health provider will draw blood from your vein.
2. The health provider will collect the blood sample from your vein and put it in a container.
3. The blood sample is then sent to the laboratory for further analysis. 

FAQs

What is the HBsAg surface antigen test?

This test monitors whether you currently have the virus that causes hepatitis and hepatitis antigens. It is part of a panel of tests that screen for hepatitis. 

 

What is the difference between Hep B Ab and Ag?

Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) is an antigen that protects against hepatitis infection through its presence, as the latter indicates the person has been infected by HBV. During infection, the immune system produces antibodies as a response, which neutralize the disease. 

 

On the other hand, Hepatitis B Surface Antibodies (HBsAb or Anti-HBs) are antibodies from HBV that indicate past infection and immunity through vaccination.  

 

What is the role of the hepatitis B surface antigen?

The hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is a protein on the surface of the HBV virus particle. It serves as the foundation of all available anti-hepatitis vaccines. Detecting it in the blood is vital for diagnosing the disease. 

 

What is the HBeAg test?

The HBeAg test determines how much of the Hepatitis virus (HBeAg) remains in the patient’s blood after viral replication. 

 

Medi Linx’s Medical Tests

Our other medical tests also include the following:

• Urinalysis
• Executive check-up
• Pre-employment medical exam 
• Executive check-up 

 

Take Your HBsAg Hepatitis B Antigen Surface Test With Medi Linx 

The HBsAg test is a critical tool in Hepatitis B diagnosis and prevention. Whether or not you are at high risk, regular screening for Hepatitis B is essential. Through regular screening, we can save more lives and also stop the spread of Hepatitis B.

Medi Linx Laboratory Inc. provides comprehensive laboratory testing services and is dedicated to providing the best quality of services possible. Empower yourself and take your HBV test with us today! Book it on Medi Linx’s Virtual Lab or call at 0939-9227341!