Hepatitis Panel

A hepatitis panel is a group of blood tests used to diagnose and monitor liver infections caused by hepatitis viruses. The panel typically includes tests for:

• Hepatitis A virus (HAV): IgM and IgG antibodies, which indicate current or past infection
• Hepatitis B virus (HBV):
  • HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen): indicates current infection
  • HBsAb (hepatitis B surface antibody): indicates immunity or past infection
  • HBcAb (hepatitis B core antibody): indicates current or past infection
  • HBeAg (hepatitis B e-antigen): indicates viral replication and high infectivity
  • HBeAb (hepatitis B e-antibody): indicates reduced viral replication and lower infectivity
• Hepatitis C virus (HCV):
  • HCV Ab (hepatitis C antibody): indicates current or past infection
  • HCV RNA (hepatitis C viral RNA): detects the genetic material of the virus, indicating current infection
• Hepatitis D virus (HDV): HDV Ab (hepatitis D antibody), which indicates current or past infection. Note that HDV can only infect individuals who are already infected with HBV.

The hepatitis panel may also include tests for other liver function parameters, such as:

• Alanine transaminase (ALT): an enzyme that indicates liver damage or inflammation
• Aspartate transaminase (AST): an enzyme that indicates liver damage or inflammation
• Bilirubin: a pigment that can accumulate in the blood and cause jaundice if the liver is not functioning properly

The results of the hepatitis panel are used to:

• Diagnose acute or chronic hepatitis infections
• Determine the severity of liver damage or inflammation
• Monitor the effectiveness of treatment for hepatitis infections
• Screen individuals who are at high risk for hepatitis infections, such as healthcare workers or individuals with a history of injection drug use

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Hepatitis panel?
A group of tests used to diagnose and monitor hepatitis infections.

Which types of hepatitis are typically included in the panel?
Hepatitis A, B, and C, and sometimes D and E.

What do the test results indicate?
Presence or absence of hepatitis virus antibodies or antigens in the blood.

How is the test performed?
Blood sample is drawn from a vein and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

What is the purpose of the Hepatitis panel?
To diagnose acute or chronic hepatitis infection, monitor treatment, and screen for exposure.

Who should get a Hepatitis panel?
Individuals at high risk, such as those with liver disease, or exposed to infected blood or bodily fluids.

Are there any preparation requirements for the test?
Typically no special preparation is needed, but fasting may be required in some cases.

How long does it usually take to get the test results?
Usually several days to a week, depending on the laboratory and testing methods used.

Can the Hepatitis panel detect all forms of hepatitis?
No, it may not detect all forms, such as rare or newly emerging strains.

Is the Hepatitis panel a definitive diagnostic tool?
Not always, additional tests or medical evaluation may be needed to confirm diagnosis.