Lab test · Hepatology
Hepatitis A IgM Antibody (Anti-HAV IgM)
Hepatitis A infection
- Blood sample
- No fasting
- Report within 2 days
- Home collection
What this test is for
Hepatitis A infection
This blood test looks for IgM antibodies to the hepatitis A virus. The body makes IgM early in an infection, so a positive result points to a recent or current hepatitis A infection. Hepatitis A spreads through food or water contaminated with stool and is a common cause of jaundice, especially in children.
Why a doctor may order it
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice) with dark urine
- Fever, tiredness, nausea or loss of appetite with raised liver enzymes
- A child or adult with jaundice when others at home or school are unwell
- To tell hepatitis A apart from other causes of hepatitis, such as hepatitis B or E
How to prepare
Fasting: Not needed.
There is no need to fast; you can eat and drink normally. Keep taking your usual medicines unless your doctor has told you otherwise. Tell your doctor about any medicines or herbal remedies you have taken recently, as some can also affect the liver.
At home
- Sample
- Blood sample
- How it works
- A trained collector comes to your home and takes a small blood sample from a vein in the arm. For a child, a parent can sit with them and help them stay still, and the draw takes a few minutes.
- Report
- Within 2 days of collection.
What the results can mean
A positive (reactive) IgM result usually means a recent hepatitis A infection. A negative result makes recent hepatitis A unlikely, although a test taken very early in the illness can occasionally be negative. Hepatitis A usually clears up on its own and does not become a long-term infection. Your doctor will interpret the result with your liver tests and advise on follow-up.
What's included
One test: Hepatitis A IgM Antibody (Anti-HAV IgM), from one blood sample.
Related tests
- Hepatitis E IgM Antibody (Anti-HEV IgM)Hepatitis E (jaundice) infection৳550
- Liver Function Test (LFT)A liver function test is a group of blood tests that show how well your liver is working and whether it is inflamed or damaged.
- Bilirubin (Total, Direct and Indirect)Bilirubin is a yellow substance made when old red blood cells are broken down.
- SGPT (Alanine Aminotransferase, ALT)SGPT, also called ALT (alanine aminotransferase), is an enzyme found mainly inside liver cells.
- Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)HBsAg is a protein on the surface of the hepatitis B virus.
- Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B Surface Antibody)Hepatitis B immunity (vaccine)৳550
Questions people ask
How is hepatitis A spread?
It spreads mainly through food or drinking water contaminated with the stool of an infected person. Safe water, careful hand washing and good food hygiene help prevent it.
Does hepatitis A become a long-term infection?
No. Unlike hepatitis B and C, hepatitis A does not become chronic. Most people recover fully, though it can take several weeks to feel well again.
What is the difference between hepatitis A IgM and IgG?
IgM appears early and shows a recent infection. IgG stays for life after an infection or vaccination and shows past exposure or immunity.
Is there a vaccine for hepatitis A?
Yes. A vaccine is available and gives long-lasting protection. Ask your doctor whether it is suitable for you or your child.
How much does a Hepatitis A IgM test cost in Dhaka?
With Mukti Health the price is ৳450, and the sample is collected at your home in Dhaka. You see the price again before you confirm the booking in the Mukti Health app.
Can I do the Hepatitis A IgM test at home in Dhaka?
Yes. Book it in the Mukti Health app and a trained sample collector comes to your home in Dhaka to take the blood sample. You do not need to go to a laboratory.
How long does the Hepatitis A IgM report take?
The report is usually ready within 2 days of the sample being collected.