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    What is Anti-HBc IgM Test?

    The Anti-HBc IgM test is a blood test used to detect the presence of IgM antibodies, which the immune system produces in response to a recent hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily targets the liver. When the body is exposed to the hepatitis B virus, the immune system responds by producing antibodies aimed at fighting off the infection. Among these, IgM antibodies are produced against the hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg), which are typically the first to appear after the onset of symptoms. These antibodies can be detected in the bloodstream for up to six months after the infection.

    In cases of acute hepatitis B, IgM anti-HBc levels rise quickly, with the antibody being detectable for weeks to months, indicating a recent infection that has occurred within the last six months. While HBsAg is often detectable during acute infection, it may not be visible in all cases. Elevated liver enzyme levels are common during acute hepatitis B infections, and IgM anti-HBc can persist even after the HBsAg marker has disappeared. A non-reactive result typically excludes recent infection but does not rule out chronic hepatitis B. In patients with chronic hepatitis B, IgM may appear temporarily if the infection becomes active. This test is useful for distinguishing acute hepatitis B from other hepatitis viruses.

    This test is often recommended for individuals with liver-related symptoms or those who have been at risk of exposure to the hepatitis B virus.

    Anti-HBc IgM Test Parameters

    The Anti-HBc IgM test measures only one parameter: the presence of IgM antibodies against the hepatitis B core (HBc) antigen in the blood.

    These antibodies are produced during the early stages of infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and are a key marker for recent infection, typically within the past six months. A positive Anti-HBc IgM result indicates acute HBV infection, while its presence in chronic cases may signify severe flares or reactivation of the virus.

    Antibodies play an essential role in the immune system's response to HBV. When the virus infects the body, the immune system produces specific antibodies to fight it. The two types of anti-HBc antibodies are IgM and IgG. IgM antibodies appear during acute or recent infections and diminish after about six months. In contrast, IgG antibodies remain detectable for life, signifying past or chronic HBV infection.

    The Anti-HBc IgM test is crucial for diagnosing acute hepatitis B, especially when symptoms are present or when recent exposure to HBV is suspected. It enables early diagnosis and helps guide timely treatment decisions.

    Anti-HBc IgM Test Preparation

    When booking your Anti-HBc IgM test, please be aware of the following details:

    Prerequisites: There is no need for fasting or any special preparation prior to the Anti-HBc IgM test.

    Best Time to Get Tested: The Anti-HBc IgM test can be performed at any time during the day. There are no time-related restrictions, so feel free to arrange it at your convenience.

    Who Should Get an Anti-HBc IgM Test?: This test is typically recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms of hepatitis, abnormal liver enzyme levels, recent hepatitis B exposure, living in regions with a high hepatitis B rate, or those who are blood donors undergoing screening.

    Cautions Before Taking Anti-HBc IgM Test: No specific precautions are required before undergoing the Anti-HBc IgM test.

    Why Take the Anti-HBc IgM Test?

    The Anti-HBc IgM test is highly recommended for:

    • Individuals showing hepatitis symptoms : Symptoms include jaundice, tiredness, fever, poor appetite, stomach pain, nausea, and aching joints.

    • People who have been recently exposed to hepatitis B : This includes those working in healthcare environments or coming into contact with infected individuals.

    • Residents of regions with widespread hepatitis B : Identifying acute versus chronic infection is vital in these areas for accurate diagnosis.

    • Those with abnormal liver enzyme results : Indicating a potential hepatitis B infection.

    • Blood donors : Regular screening ensures the safety of transfusions in blood donation facilities.

    By identifying recent hepatitis B infections, this test aids in timely diagnosis and ensures proper treatment.

    FAQs on Anti-HBc IgM Test in Mumbai

    In Mumbai, the Anti-HBc IgM test is priced at ₹1130. This includes the convenience of home sample collection, which will occur within 60 minutes of booking confirmation. The results will be made available within 30 hours of sample collection.

    Yes, Orange Health Labs provides home sample collection for the Anti-HBc IgM test in Mumbai. A trained eMedic will arrive at your location within 60 minutes of booking confirmation, based on available time slots.

    The Anti-HBc IgM test is useful for diagnosing and staging hepatitis B infections. It helps in identifying recent infections (usually within the last 6 months) and detecting if chronic carriers are undergoing a transition from inactive to active infection. A positive result suggests a recent infection, while a negative result rules out recent infection but doesn’t exclude chronic infection. It’s important to interpret the results with other hepatitis markers and the patient's medical history.

    Fasting is generally not required for the Anti-HBc IgM test. However, it is always a good idea to follow any specific instructions your doctor may provide.

    To book the Anti-HBc IgM test, follow these steps:

    • Search for the test : Visit the Orange Health website and locate the Anti-HBc IgM test option.

    • Confirm your booking : Enter your details, choose a time slot that suits you, and confirm the appointment.

    • Sample collection : After booking confirmation, a qualified eMedic will visit your home to collect the blood sample.

    • Laboratory processing : Your sample will be sent to an ICMR-certified and NABL-accredited laboratory for processing.

    • Get the results : Your Anti-HBc IgM results will be delivered to you within 30 hours of collection via email or WhatsApp.

    The normal Anti-HBc IgM test result is negative (< 5 PEIU/ml), which indicates there is no recent infection. An equivocal result (5–9 PEIU/ml) suggests the possibility of an early or resolving infection. A positive result (≥ 10 PEIU/ml) points to a recent acute infection.

    After booking the Anti-HBc IgM test, a trained eMedic will collect your sample within 60 minutes of confirmation. Your results will be available within 30 hours after the sample collection.

    The frequency of taking the Anti-HBc IgM test depends on your health condition and any advice provided by your doctor.

    The Anti-HBc IgM test detects the presence of Anti-HBc IgM antibodies, which are indicative of a recent hepatitis B infection.

    Orange Health Labs offers home sample collection for the Anti-HBc IgM test in many areas across Mumbai, including localities like Colaba, Nariman Point, Marine Drive, Malabar Hill, Churchgate, Worli, Dadar, Parel, Byculla, Bandra, Andheri, Juhu, Ghatkopar, Powai, Chembur, Vashi, Belapur, Santacruz, Khar, Versova, Lokhandwala, Goregaon, Borivali, Kandivali, Mulund, Bhandup, Kurla.

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    References

    1. HBc IgM (Anti-Hepatitis B core IgM) | Newfoundland & Labrador Public Health Laboratory.  Available from:  https://publichealthlab.ca/reportingname/hbc-igm-anti-hepatitis-b-core-igm/
    2. CDC. Clinical Testing and Diagnosis for Hepatitis B.  Available from:  https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis-b/hcp/diagnosis-testing/index.html
    3. Hepatitis B Foundation. Hepatitis B Foundation: Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results. https://www.hepb.org/prevention-and-diagnosis/diagnosis/understanding-your-test-results/  Available from:  https://www.hepb.org/prevention-and-diagnosis/diagnosis/understanding-your-test-results/
    4. Hepatitis B Foundation. Hepatitis B Foundation: Hepatitis B Blood Tests.  Available from:  https://www.hepb.org/prevention-and-diagnosis/diagnosis/hbv-blood-tests/
    5. Clinical Significance and Remaining Issues of Anti-HBc Antibody and HBV Core-Related Antigen. Diagnostics.  Available from:  https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/14/7/728
    6. Hepatitis Panel: MedlinePlus Lab Test Information.  Available from:  https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/hepatitis-panel/