Serological testing for the hepatitis A virus is used to detect recent or previous exposure to the virus or the existence of hepatitis A virus immunity.
Hepatitis A virus (HAV) - formerly called infectious hepatitis - has a short incubation period of 2 to 6 weeks and is highly contagious. During acute infection, the hepatitis A virus is excreted in the feces and transmitted through the fecal-oral route by contamination of food and drink. Most hepatitis A infections are not associated with severe enough symptoms to warrant medical evaluation and intervention. When hepatitis A is suspected, the test of total antibodies (IgG and IgM) or IgM alone against the hepatitis A virus is usually used.
The first antibodies appearing are IgM (Anti-HAV IgM), about 3 to 4 weeks after exposure to the virus or shortly before serum elevation of hepatic enzymes occurs. These IgM antibodies usually return to normal in about eight weeks. The next elevated antibody class against HAV is IgG, which appears about two weeks after IgM increase. IgG antibodies may remain detectable for more than ten years after infection. If IgM antibodies are elevated without IgG antibodies, acute hepatitis is likely. If IgG is elevated without elevated IgM antibodies, then the patient may be in recovery or have a chronic hepatitis A infection.
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Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70% and 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted solely based on the numerical result of a single analysis. They should be interpreted in relation to each individual case, family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
