Current infection, past infection and immunity are covered by this extended Hepatitis A, B and C Profile which looks for antibodies that are made by the body's immune system in response to infection from the three most usually encountered Hepatitis viruses - A is transmitted orally, but B and C via blood products and therefore potentially sexually transmissable.
Not only are these three viruses sought, this profile also includes a full liver function test (LFT) which will show early signs of liver damage, or evidence of current active hepatitis (which may be present without symptoms).
The result will inform you whether or not you have been infected by any one of these viruses, at some point up to about 3-4 weeks prior to submitting the sample. The profile also contains information (from the types of antibodies present or not) concerning immunity or ongoing active infection (as opposed to being simply evidence of past infection).
Hepatitis A and B are vaccine-preventable infections. There is significant risk of future deterioration of health for people who develop chronic lever disease following Hepatitis B and C infections. B and C can be acquired from blood or blood products contracted via for example blood transfusion, contaminated needles, tattooing or body piercing. B and C can also be transmitted by sexual contact between an infected and non immune partner.
Please be aware that if contact has been within the past 3-4 weeks, antibodies to Hepatitis viruses may not reach detectable levels by the time of taking a sample - in which case repeat testing a further 4 weeks later should be considered, especially if the risk of having acquired one of these infections is considered to be high.
This test is NOT available as a finger prick BUT is available as a vacutainer sample collection option. You can make your own arrangement for blood collection, or choose to visit a Circle Hospital or Superdrug store, or to opt for a Nurse Home Visit. Select option at checkout.
Description provided by Blue Horizon Medicals.
