Hepatitis B: Anti-HBs

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that leads to liver inflammation. Test results can reveal the presence of a current hepatitis B infection, past exposure to HBV, or immunity to the virus.

HBV is primarily transmitted through contact with bodily fluids, most commonly through blood-to-blood contact. However, it can also be spread through other bodily fluids. The modes of HBV exposure can vary depending on the region but often include transmission during childbirth and infancy, sharing of intravenous drug needles, or engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse.

What is the purpose of Hepatitis B testing?

A healthcare provider may request hepatitis B testing for various reasons, including:

1. Screening for HBV: These tests aim to detect hepatitis B infection before symptoms manifest. Given that many individuals with hepatitis B don't experience noticeable symptoms, screening allows for early detection. This early detection facilitates timely treatment and prevents inadvertent transmission of the virus to others. Screening is typically recommended for those at an elevated risk of contracting the infection.
2. Diagnosing and Assessing HBV Infection: Hepatitis B tests can determine whether you currently have a hepatitis B infection, helping differentiate between acute and chronic cases. They also gauge the potential for virus transmission to others.
3. Evaluating Past Infection and Immunity: Hepatitis B tests can ascertain whether you are immune to the virus, either through prior HBV vaccination or recovery from a past infection. These tests are also useful for verifying the success of vaccination in generating immunity and identifying individuals at a heightened risk of HBV reactivation.
4. Monitoring HBV Infections: After a hepatitis B diagnosis, testing may be employed to monitor the progression of the disease, identify complications, and assess the effectiveness of treatment.

What does the Hepatitis B test show?

Hepatitis B testing involves the detection of antigens, antibodies, or the genetic material of the HBV virus. HBV antigens are viral components that trigger an immune response in the body, while antibodies are produced by the immune system in response to HBV.

Initial hepatitis B tests typically assess various antibodies and antigens associated with HBV, including:

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)

Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs)

Total hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc)

IgM Hepatitis B core antibody (IgM anti-HBc)

Are there any additional tests to monitor hepatitis B?

If you receive a hepatitis B diagnosis through these initial tests, further testing may be employed to track the progression of the disease, inform treatment decisions, and assess your potential for transmitting hepatitis B to others. These supplementary tests may encompass:

Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)

Hepatitis B e antibody (anti-HBe)

Hepatitis B viral DNA

When should I get this test?

Hepatitis B screening with HBV tests is advisable for specific groups with an elevated risk of infection. You might consider hepatitis B screening if you:

• Are pregnant
• Were born in parts of the world where the disease is more common, including Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, South America, and parts of the Middle East
• Didnt receive a hepatitis B vaccine
• Are HIV-positive
• Use injectable drugs
• Are at risk of HBV infection due to sexual exposure

What are the symptoms that can be caused by hepatitis B?

Symptoms of hepatitis B include:

• Dark urine
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Gray- or clay-coloured stools
• Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
• Pain in the joints or abdomen
• Yellowish skin and eyes