The HBsAg test is a blood test that detects the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in your blood. A positive or reactive result indicates an active hepatitis B infection, meaning the person is infected with the hepatitis B virus and can transmit it to others. This test directly identifies the virus itself within the bloodstream.
Understanding the HBsAg Test
The HBsAg test is a crucial component in diagnosing hepatitis B. It's used to determine if someone has a current, active infection, whether recent or long-standing. The test doesn't distinguish between acute (newly acquired) and chronic (long-term) infections. A positive result means the person is infectious and requires further investigation and treatment.
- What it detects: The Hepatitis B surface antigen (a protein found on the surface of the Hepatitis B virus).
- What it means: A positive result signifies an active hepatitis B infection.
- Use in diagnosis: Often part of a panel of tests (along with anti-HBs and anti-HBc) for comprehensive hepatitis B diagnosis. The CDC recommends a 3-test panel for HBV screening.
- Importance in Public Health: The test is vital in identifying infectious individuals, allowing for timely treatment, prevention of transmission, and contact tracing.
Additional Information
Several sources emphasize the importance of the HBsAg test in diagnosing hepatitis B. A positive HBsAg test definitively confirms an active infection, regardless of whether the infection is acute or chronic. The test's role in public health is significant because it helps identify and manage individuals capable of spreading the virus.
