HBsAg Test (Hepatitis B Surface Antigen)

What Does the HBsAg Test Measure?

The HBsAg test specifically measures several important aspects of Hepatitis B infection:

• Presence of Hepatitis B surface antigen: A protein found on the outer surface of the virus.
• Active infection status: Whether you currently have Hepatitis B in your system.
• Infectiousness level: Your ability to transmit the virus to others through blood or body fluids.
• Infection stage: Helps distinguish between acute (new) and chronic (long-term) infections.

HBsAg Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What Symptoms May Call for an HBsAg Test?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience symptoms that suggest Hepatitis B infection:

• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
• Dark-coloured urine
• Extreme tiredness and fatigue
• Fever
• Abdominal pain, especially near the liver (upper right side)
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Joint and muscle pain

Who Should Get an HBsAg Test?

Several groups of people should consider getting tested for their health and safety:

• Pregnant women: Routine screening prevents mother-to-child transmission.
• Healthcare workers: Regular exposure to blood increases infection risk.
• Household contacts: People living with someone who has chronic Hepatitis B
• Sexual partners: Anyone whose partner is infected with Hepatitis B
• People who inject drugs: Especially those sharing needles or syringes
• Dialysis patients: Higher risk due to frequent blood exposure
• People with HIV or Hepatitis C: Co-infections require special monitoring
• Blood and organ donors: Mandatory screening before donation
• Patients starting immunosuppressive therapy: Risk of virus reactivation

Why Is an HBsAg Test Done?

The HBsAg test is done to screen for and confirm active Hepatitis B infection, helping doctors provide proper medical care, prevent severe liver complications, and stop the spread of infection to others.

Importance of an HBsAg Test

The HBsAg test plays a crucial role in maintaining both individual and community health. It serves as the primary diagnostic tool for identifying active Hepatitis B infections, allowing for early detection and timely medical intervention. Early diagnosis enables doctors to monitor liver health closely and initiate antiviral treatment when necessary. It significantly reduces the risk of long-term complications such as liver failure and liver cancer.

The test is also vital for preventing transmission, helping infected individuals take necessary precautions to protect their family members, household contacts, and sexual partners. Additionally, the test ensures the safety of blood donations, organ transplants, and tissue transfers by screening potential donors.

HBsAg Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India

How to Book an HBsAg Test?

1. Simple Online Booking
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select 'HBsAg Test', choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure the timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols.
3. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL- & CAP-accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
5. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is Home Sample Collection for the HBsAg Test Available Near You?

Yes, Metropolis Healthcare provides home sample collection for the HBsAg test, making testing convenient and comfortable. Our trained phlebotomists visit your location at your preferred time, ensuring safe sample collection while following strict hygiene protocols. This service eliminates travel concerns and waiting times.

How Long Does It Take to Get an HBsAg Test Report?

Reports are usually available within 8 hours once the sample reaches the lab.

Where Can I See or Get the HBsAg Test Results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting HBsAg Test Results

What Your HBsAg Test Results May Indicate

The table below shows how to understand your HBsAg test results and their clinical significance:

Conditions that May Affect HBsAg Test Accuracy

Several factors can influence your HBsAg test results and should be discussed with your doctor:

• Biotin supplements: High doses (more than 5 mg daily) may interfere with test results, requiring an 8-hour wait before blood draw.
• Immunosuppressive medications: Medicines that weaken the immune system may affect antigen levels.
• Recent vaccination: Hepatitis B vaccination may temporarily affect test interpretation.
• Severe illness or stress: Can impact immune system response and antigen detection.
• Laboratory processing conditions: Improper sample handling or storage may affect accuracy.
• Co-infections: Other viral infections may influence immune response patterns.

How Is an HBsAg Test Done?

The HBsAg test involves a simple and quick blood collection procedure performed by trained healthcare professionals:

• A healthcare professional cleans the area on your arm, usually inside your elbow, with an antiseptic.
• An elastic band (tourniquet) is tied around your upper arm to make veins more visible.
• A sterile needle is inserted into a vein to collect a small blood sample into a vial.
• Once the sample is collected, the needle is removed, and a cotton ball or bandage is placed over the puncture site.
• The blood sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis using advanced testing methods.

How Should You Prepare for an HBsAg Test?

Preparing for your HBsAg test is straightforward and requires minimal effort:

• No fasting required: You can eat and drink normally before the test.
• Continue regular medications: Take your usual medicines unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Stay well-hydrated: Drink adequate water to make blood collection easier.
• Inform about supplements: Tell your doctor about any biotin supplements you're taking.
• Wear comfortable clothing: Choose clothes with sleeves that can be easily rolled up.

Diseases that an HBsAg Test Can Help Detect

The HBsAg test is specifically designed to identify Hepatitis B-related conditions:

• Acute Hepatitis B infection: A new, short-term infection that may resolve on its own.
• Chronic Hepatitis B infection: Long-term infection lasting more than six months.
• Hepatitis B carrier state: Individuals who carry the virus without symptoms but can transmit it.
• Hepatitis B reactivation: Previously controlled infection that becomes active again
• Co-infections: Hepatitis B occurring alongside HIV or Hepatitis C.

HBsAg Tests/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

The following related tests and packages are available at Metropolis Healthcare to provide a comprehensive Hepatitis B assessment:

HBsAg Test Prices in Different Cities

The cost of an HBsAg test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate prices in different cities: