Hepatitis A (HAV) Antibody, Total
CPT Code(s):
86708
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:
6 days
Refrigerated:
14 days
Frozen:
90 days
Clinical Significance
The Hepatitis A, Total test holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in assessing a patient's overall exposure to the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It measures the presence of both IgM and IgG antibodies against HAV in the blood.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of the Hepatitis A, Total test include:
1. Past or Recent HAV Infection: The test helps determine whether an individual has had a past or recent HAV infection. Hepatitis A is a viral infection primarily transmitted through contaminated food or water. The presence of IgG antibodies against HAV indicates previous exposure or immunity to the virus. The presence of IgM antibodies suggests recent infection or acute HAV infection.
2. Immunity Assessment: The Hepatitis A, Total test is used to assess immunity against HAV. Positive IgG antibodies indicate immunity to HAV, either through previous infection or vaccination. Immunity to hepatitis A is important for certain occupations, travel to endemic areas, and protection during outbreaks.
3. Screening in High-Risk Individuals: The test is used to screen individuals at higher risk of HAV infection, such as healthcare workers, food handlers, travelers to endemic regions, and individuals with chronic liver disease. It helps identify susceptible individuals who may benefit from vaccination or other preventive measures.
4. Pre-Travel Assessment: The Hepatitis A, Total test is often performed as part of pre-travel evaluations for individuals planning to visit areas with a high prevalence of hepatitis A. The results help determine the need for vaccination and provide guidance on preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection during travel.
5. Outbreak Investigations: The test plays a significant role in identifying and investigating hepatitis A outbreaks. It helps determine the extent of exposure within a community or specific settings and assists in implementing control measures, such as vaccination campaigns, enhanced hygiene practices, and public health interventions.
6. Monitoring Vaccine Response: Serial measurements of Hepatitis A, Total antibodies may be performed to monitor the immune response following hepatitis A vaccination. Rising IgG antibody levels indicate a successful response to vaccination, confirming immunity against HAV.
It is important to note that the Hepatitis A, Total test does not distinguish between past and recent infections or differentiate between immunity from previous infection and vaccination. Additional testing, such as Hepatitis A, IgM, and IgG antibody specific assays, may be required for further clarification and to differentiate recent infections from past exposure or vaccination.
In summary, the Hepatitis A, Total test is specifically used to assess past or recent HAV infection, determine immunity to HAV, screen high-risk individuals, evaluate vaccine response, and assist in outbreak investigations. It provides valuable information for patient management, preventive measures, and public health interventions related to hepatitis A.