Description

The Hepatitis A, B, C Acute Blood Panel is a comprehensive test used to screen for acute liver infections caused by the three most common hepatitis viruses: Hepatitis A (HAV), Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV). This panel helps detect recent or early infections, determine exposure, and guide follow-up testing and treatment if necessary.

Why This Test Is Important:

Viral hepatitis can cause liver inflammation and damage, often without noticeable symptoms early on. Detecting these infections early helps prevent complications such as liver failure, cirrhosis, or liver cancer—especially for chronic hepatitis B and C.

This panel evaluates:

  • Acute or recent infections with Hepatitis A and B
  • Exposure to Hepatitis C (past or present)
  • Potential chronic infection with Hepatitis B

When to Consider This Test:

Order this panel if you are experiencing symptoms of hepatitis or have been at risk of exposure. Common risk factors include:

  • Recent travel to areas with poor sanitation
  • Unprotected sex
  • Shared needles or drug use
  • Blood transfusions (especially before 1992)
  • Occupational exposure (healthcare, lab work)

Common Symptoms of Acute Hepatitis:

  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Fever
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Jaundice (yellow skin or eyes)
  • Dark-colored urine
  • Light-colored stools
  • Abdominal pain
  • Joint pain

What's Included in the Panel:

  1. Hepatitis A Antibody (IgM)
  2. Detects early Hepatitis A infection. IgM antibodies appear within 4 weeks of exposure and typically disappear within 3–6 months.
  3. Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)
  4. Identifies acute and chronic Hepatitis B infection. This is the earliest marker of HBV infection, detectable 1–10 weeks after exposure.
  5. Hepatitis B Core Antibody (IgM) (HBcAb-IgM)
  6. Indicates recent Hepatitis B infection (usually within the past 6 months). Often used to detect infections during the "core window" period when other markers may be negative.
  7. Hepatitis C Antibody (HCAb)
  8. Screens for current or past exposure to the Hepatitis C virus. Antibodies usually appear 6–8 weeks after exposure and persist for life. A positive test requires follow-up PCR testing to determine active infection.

Test Details:

  • Sample Type: Blood
  • Fasting Required: No

Next Steps:

A positive result on this panel should be followed by additional testing—such as viral load or liver function tests—to confirm diagnosis and guide treatment. Early detection allows for better outcomes and prevents the spread of hepatitis viruses to others.

Take Charge of Your Liver Health:

If you’re experiencing symptoms of liver distress or have had potential exposure, the Hepatitis A, B, C Acute Blood Panel is a reliable and essential step toward understanding your liver health and protecting yourself and others.