HAV Test - Price, Purpose, Procedure, Reports, & More

Table of Content

Introduction to HAV Test

The HAV test in full form is the Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) IgM/antibodies test. It determines if the person is infected with IgM. The IgM antibodies are formed within the weeks of infection. Quantitative hepatitis is an infection that is most frequently brought on by an infection in the liver. Your doctor might suggest a HAV IgM test based on the symptoms that often begin unexpectedly: loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, and extreme fatigue. There is a high chance of HAV being present in children without showing any symptoms. In all these scenarios, it becomes evident to take the HAV antibody test as it is the most reliable one. 

If your healthcare provider has suggested the test based on the symptoms or history that might put you at risk of catching the virus, book the HAV test with us now! Ours is a leading diagnostic center in India that provides affordable and accessible healthcare services. We offer comprehensive diagnostic services, including routine blood tests, preventive health checkups, and more. So, why wait? Book the HAV test now with Healthy India Ki Trusted Labs, Redcliffe Labs. We also offer home sample collection services with accurate reports within deadlines, aiming to make healthcare more convenient for our customers. 

Test Details:

What is the purpose of the HAV test?

The HAV test aims to diagnose hepatitis A and assess whether you have immunity to this disease. The examination becomes crucial when the following symptoms become apparent, such as: 

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Extreme Fatigue 
• Clay shades or light gray stool
• Yellow eyes and skin (jaundice)
• Urine with a deep color

A doctor may order an HAV test for several purposes, including: 

• Diagnose current infection: The test detects whether the HAV-specific IgM antibodies are in your serum. The body's immune system makes these antibodies in response to a hepatitis A infection. 
• Infection staging: The IgM antibody level can help gauge the infection. 
• Prevention of spread: Early detection can help prevent further virus spread. 
• No matter the reason, if suggested, book the HAV test with us now to initiate the treatment and prevent further complications. 

What are the main causes of Hepatitis A infection?

Hepatitis A is a contagious infection. It can spread primarily through coming close to a contaminated person or through contaminated food or drink. Other reasons include: 

• If you have visited a country with high HAV infection rates, this makes you high being close to a HAV carrier. 
• If you are having sex with a HAV-positive person.
• If you, while an HAV man has sex with men. 
• Working at a daycare center or healthcare
• Sharing needles or syringes to inject drugs. 

What does the HAV test measure?

The HAV test looks for certain antibodies and may be measured by a few different tests: 

1. Anti-HAV IgM Antibodies: Immunoglobulin M antibodies indicate current Hepatitis A infection. These antibodies are usually identified two weeks after symptoms start to around six months later. 
2. Anti-HAV IgG Antibodies: If immunoglobulin G antibodies are present, they highlight past infection or vaccination and provide immunity. 
3. Total hepatitis A antibody test: This test detects both IgM and IgG antibodies, so it is needed to identify past and present infections. 

A healthcare provider may order additional blood tests to check the liver function. These include: 

• Liver Function Tests (LFTs): These tests check for enzymes and proteins. They include AST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase, and bilirubin to assess liver damage or inflammation.
• Symptoms Review: It evaluates symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, loss of appetite, and nausea.
• Patient history reveals contact with infected individuals, recent travel, or eating contaminated food or water.
• Physical Examination: Detects signs of liver enlargement or jaundice. 

How can you prepare for the HAV test?

Hepatitis A testing involves a blood test to check for antibodies against the hepatitis. When your healthcare provider orders the HAV blood test, you can book the test with us without delay. Please note you need not prepare for hepatitis A testing. Consult your doctor; you may need to stop taking your regular medicines before the test. 

Additionally, no fasting is required for the HAV test, but you must ensure that you can eat or drink anything before the test. 

If you have any doubts or concerns about hepatitis A testing, ask your healthcare provider for clarification to help improve the accuracy of your HAV test results. 

What is the procedure for hepatitis A testing?

You need to book an appointment with us for hepatitis A testing. Our representative will visit your property at the given time. Once he reaches your doorstep for the HAV blood test, he will do what is necessary. 

• First, he will search for a suitable vein in your arm to collect the blood. 
• Then, he will cover the site with a band to make the veins more clearly visible and may ask you to clench your fist. 
• He will use disinfectant to clean the site before inserting a needle for a blood draw. 
• Once done, he will open the bandage applied to the puncture site, ask you to unclench the fist and apply a bandage to prevent infection. 
• Lastly, he will transfer the blood into a tube, label it, and send it to the laboratory for analysis. 

What are the risks associated with the HAV IGM test?

The HAV IGM test carries minimal risk. However, you may develop a bruise or pain at the puncture site. These are temporary signs and symptoms that disappear in a few days. 

If you have needle phobia like any other blood test, please inform the phlebotomist before the test to help you remain more careful. 

Some people feel nervous or anxious before the test; however, taking deep breaths and relaxing can help. 

Note: The HAV blood test is simple and takes less than five minutes. It is advisable to sleep for at least 6-7 hours before the test, and if pain or bruises still exist, immediate medical attention is necessary. 

What do the HAV IGM test reports indicate?

The HAV IGM test results could vary depending on the lab where the blood sample is tested. Discuss with your healthcare provider what your specific HAV IGM test results mean. 

If you are tested negative for HAV, it means you don’t have hepatitis A antibodies in your blood. However, if your test is positive, it could mean: 

• The HAV infection is active in your body. 
• The HAV infection was also detected earlier. 
• You have been vaccinated against Hepatitis A. 

Who should take the HAV test?

Individuals with a liver infection caused by HAV, or who traveled to a country with a high risk of HAV infection and have a history that puts them at risk for being in contact with the virus, or having contact with eating or contaminated food should get tested for an HAV blood test. 

Some common symptoms of the hepatitis A virus include extreme tiredness, nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, and dark-colored urine; in that case, you should get yourself tested. 

Book HAV IGM Test Price for INR 1190 from Redcliffe Labs

The HAV test at Redcliffe Labs costs INR 1190. It detects antibodies in your blood and tells you if you are infected with the hepatitis A virus (HAV). 

If your healthcare provider has suggested hepatitis A testing, get yourself tested immediately. You can also book an express slot for the HAV blood test and get your sample collected within 45 minutes. We provide accurate test reports within a given time. 

Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) IgM Antibodies Test Cost in Different Cities - Redcliffe Labs

Note: We also offer Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) IgM Antibodies Test PAN India. Please call the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.

Do I need to follow up for a HAV test? 

A follow-up test depends on your HAV test results. It will also help assess appropriate nutrition and manage disease-related complications. Do not hesitate to ask anything from your healthcare provider and get a tailor-made solution. 

Conclusion: 

There is a high chance of getting HAV after eating contaminated food or water. If someone is first infected with HAV, their immune system makes antibodies. It will take approximately 14 to 50 days to develop symptoms after an individual is infected with the hepatitis A virus. Children are mostly vulnerable to HAV and do not show any signs or symptoms, such as fever, diarrhea, or indigestion.

Ask your healthcare provider if your body is showing symptoms of an HAV infection. Early detection can be beneficial in preventing further complications and initiating the treatment.