Hepatitis B (HBV) Core Antibody, IgM
CPT Code(s):
86705
Turnaround Time:
24 - 48 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Serum
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Rejection Criteria:
Sodium Citrate plasma; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
2 hours
Refrigerated:
7 days
Frozen:
90 days
Clinical Significance
The Hepatitis B Core, IgM test holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in detecting acute or recent hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It measures the presence of IgM antibodies against the hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) in the blood.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of the Hepatitis B Core, IgM test include:
1. Acute Hepatitis B Diagnosis: The test is primarily used to diagnose acute hepatitis B infection. Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and is transmitted through blood, sexual contact, or perinatal exposure. Detection of IgM antibodies against HBcAg indicates recent or ongoing infection within the past few months. It helps differentiate acute hepatitis B from chronic infection or resolved hepatitis B.
2. Early Infection Detection: The Hepatitis B Core, IgM test is useful in detecting early-stage hepatitis B infection, especially during the window period when other hepatitis B markers may not be present. Early detection allows for timely intervention, appropriate management, and prevention of further transmission.
3. Screening of Symptomatic Patients: The test is performed on individuals presenting with symptoms consistent with acute hepatitis, such as fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, jaundice, and abdominal pain. Positive results confirm the presence of an active HBV infection and guide further diagnostic investigations, risk assessment, and appropriate management.
4. Monitoring Disease Progression: Serial measurements of Hepatitis B Core, IgM antibodies may be performed to monitor disease progression in individuals with acute hepatitis B. A decline in IgM antibody levels over time indicates resolution of the infection and helps assess the effectiveness of treatment interventions and the patient's immune response.
5. Evaluation of Vaccination Response: The Hepatitis B Core, IgM test can be used to evaluate the immune response following hepatitis B vaccination. In vaccinated individuals, the absence of IgM antibodies against HBcAg indicates successful vaccination and protection against acute infection.
6. Public Health Surveillance: The Hepatitis B Core, IgM test is an important tool for public health surveillance programs. It helps identify and track cases of acute hepatitis B infection within a community or population, contributing to the monitoring and control of the disease. Data obtained from the test can guide preventive measures, vaccination programs, and targeted interventions.
It is important to note that the Hepatitis B Core, IgM test is specific to acute or recent hepatitis B infection and does not provide information about chronic hepatitis B or immunity status. Additional tests, such as Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs), may be required for a complete assessment of the patient's hepatitis B status.
In summary, the Hepatitis B Core, IgM test is specifically used for diagnosing acute or recent hepatitis B infection by detecting IgM antibodies against HBcAg. It plays a crucial role in early detection, monitoring disease progression, assessing vaccination response, and contributing to public health surveillance efforts. Early diagnosis and appropriate management of acute hepatitis B infection are vital for preventing complications and reducing the risk of transmission.