Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can have serious consequences on the liver. It ranges from being a short-term illness to a chronic infection that can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. The Hepatitis B Panel - Monitoring is an assembly of tests that are vital in the monitoring of Hepatitis B infection. This panel aids in understanding the stage of infection, assessing the liver's condition, and guiding the treatment decisions.
The Hepatitis B Monitoring Panel ../includes several markers. Anti-HBc IgM is an antibody that indicates a recent infection with Hepatitis B. HBcAb-Total represents antibodies to the Hepatitis B core antigen, showing both recent and past infections. Anti-HBe is an antibody that indicates the virus is less active, and thus, less likely to cause liver damage. HBeAg suggests that the virus is actively replicating and the infected person can easily spread the virus. Anti-HBs denotes immunity against Hepatitis B, either due to vaccination or recovery from infection. HBsAg is a protein on the surface of the virus, indicating an active Hepatitis B infection.
Note: Home Sample Collection is only for Pathology lab tests.
The Hepatitis B Monitoring Panel is essential to understand the stage of Hepatitis B infection, how the virus is affecting the liver, and to guide treatment decisions. Monitoring the levels of these markers helps in assessing the risk of transmission, liver damage, and in evaluating the effectiveness of antiviral therapy.
Anti-HBc IgM is an antibody that the body produces early in Hepatitis B infection. A positive Anti-HBc IgM test suggests a recent infection or acute reactivation of a chronic infection.
Anti-HBe is an antibody produced against the hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg). A positive Anti-HBe test often indicates that the virus is less active, and the person is at a lower risk of liver damage.
HBeAg is a viral protein that indicates active viral replication. A positive HBeAg test suggests that the virus is actively replicating and that the infected person can easily spread the virus.
Anti-HBs are antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the hepatitis B surface antigen. It is indicative of immunity against Hepatitis B due to vaccination or recovery from a past infection.
HBsAg is a protein found on the surface of the Hepatitis B virus. Its presence indicates an active infection with Hepatitis B.
The frequency of testing depends on the stage of Hepatitis B infection and the doctor’s recommendation. In chronic Hepatitis B cases, monitoring might be done every six months or annually.
If diagnosed with Hepatitis B, it's vital to follow the doctor's treatment plan, avoid alcohol, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and prevent the spread of the virus by practicing safe sex and not sharing needles.
Factors such as stage of infection, immune system status, age, gender, and treatment compliance can affect the levels of these markers.
In case of abnormal values, consulting a hepatologist or an infectious disease specialist is recommended.
Vaccination is not necessary for someone who has been infected with Hepatitis B in the past, as the infection itself often provides immunity against the virus.
Treatment options for Hepatitis B include antiviral medications to fight the virus and liver-protecting drugs. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.
There is no cure for Hepatitis B, but treatment can help manage the virus and prevent liver damage.
Yes, getting vaccinated and taking precautions such as practicing safe sex and not sharing needles can prevent Hepatitis B infection.
Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with the blood, semen, or other body fluids of an infected person.
Hepatitis B is a complex infection that requires regular monitoring to manage effectively. The Hepatitis B Panel - Monitoring provides comprehensive information on the stage of infection, replication activity of the virus, and liver involvement, which is crucial in guiding treatment decisions. Regular monitoring and adherence to the doctor's advice are essential in managing Hepatitis B and preventing its complications.