Hepatitis B is the most prevalent liver infection globally. It is a serious viral infection that targets the liver, causing liver inflammation. This virus is spread through contact with contaminated bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, vaginal fluids, and semen, and can also be transmitted from the mother to the child during birth and early childhood.
A screening test known as the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test helps to detect the hepatitis B infection in the serum 6 to 16 weeks following exposure to the virus. A newly infected person typically shows no symptoms at all. Later, symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), dark urine, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain are noticed.
Your doctor may recommend a HBsAg test in Hyderabad for the following reasons:
If you present with signs and symptoms of hepatitis B
To check for hepatitis B in a pregnant woman with the aim of preventing the transmission of hepatitis B from the mother to the child during pregnancy
To screen for hepatitis B following accidental exposure to the virus
In individuals at high risk of hepatitis B infection, such as those consuming intravenous drugs, sex workers, haemodialysis patients, and prisoners.
Over time, hepatitis B causes significant harm to your liver and may lead to liver failure and cirrhosis.
This test checks for the presence of the hepatitis B antigen in blood to identify the infection. A positive or reactive HBsAg test result indicates the presence of the hepatitis B infection.
The HBsAg (antigen) in acute infections typically disappears one to two months after symptoms appear. However, if the HBsAg antigen persists for longer than six months, it may suggest a chronic hepatitis B infection or that the person is a carrier of the virus.
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