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Hepatitis A is a viral inflammation of the liver. It spreads mainly through contaminated food and water and through close personal contact, including sexual contact. [1]
It does not become chronic, and most people recover fully; rarely, however, it can cause severe acute liver failure. An effective vaccine is available. [1]
What does the test detect?
The test looks for antibodies to the hepatitis A virus (HAV) in the blood. IgM antibodies point to a new infection; IgG antibodies show a past infection or protection after vaccination. The rapid test detects IgM antibodies. [3]
When is the test recommended?
A test is recommended if you have been in contact with an infected person, to check your protection before travelling, and if you have any of the following symptoms: [2]
- fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea,
- abdominal pain below the right ribs,
- dark urine, pale stools,
- yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes.
Travel advice and vaccination before your trip: International Vaccination Centre.
A short guide to the test
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS
- How is the sample taken?
- The test needs a blood sample; for the rapid test, a few drops of blood are enough.
- How should I prepare?
- You do not need to fast. Please tell us if you have had the hepatitis A vaccine, or if you have been in contact with an infected person.
- How will I receive my result?
- With your consent, we email your result as an encrypted, password-protected PDF. At the follow-up consultation, our specialist will explain it to you in detail. How results are sent
What should you do after you receive the test result?
IgM positive: a new or recent infection. The specialist will follow your recovery with further tests, such as liver function tests; close contacts can be vaccinated. [2]
IgG positive only: a past infection or vaccination – in this case you are protected. Negative result: no antibodies, so no protection; vaccination is recommended if you are at risk or travelling. [3]
There is no targeted medicine for hepatitis A: treatment means easing the symptoms and sparing the liver. Thorough handwashing is important to avoid passing it on. [2]
Travel and live safely. If you have been in contact with an infected person, notice symptoms that suggest hepatitis, or want to check your protection before travelling, book an appointment at Sabjanics Medical Center.
Clinical background: [1] WHO – hepatitis A · [2] NHS – hepatitis A · [3] MedlinePlus – hepatitis tests
This guide does not replace a consultation with a doctor.