Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Screen

• If you are experiencing symptoms that could indicate a liver infection, such as unexplained fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain (especially on the right side), dark urine, clay-colored stools, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
• If you have reason to believe you have been exposed to the Hepatitis B virus, for example, through contact with infected blood or unprotected sexual activity.
• As a routine part of prenatal care if you are pregnant, to identify potential infection and prevent transmission to your newborn.
• If you have a family history of Hepatitis B or are from a region where the virus is common.
• If your healthcare provider recommends it as part of a routine health check-up or for specific clinical reasons.

• Individuals at Risk: Those who may have been exposed to the Hepatitis B virus, including healthcare workers, individuals with multiple sexual partners, people who share needles, or those born in areas with high rates of Hepatitis B.
• Pregnant Individuals: Screening is crucial for pregnant women to identify potential infection and prevent transmission of the virus to their newborns, as early identification allows for preventative measures.
• Individuals with Liver Concerns: Anyone with symptoms suggestive of liver inflammation or disease, or those with unexplained abnormal liver function tests, may benefit from this test to rule out or diagnose Hepatitis B.
• Prior to Immunosuppressive Therapy: In some cases, testing may be recommended before starting treatments that could suppress the immune system, as HBV reactivation can occur in immunocompromised individuals.

The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) test is primarily used for the diagnosis of acute or chronic Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It is a key indicator for:

• Identifying active Hepatitis B infection, whether recent (acute) or long-standing (chronic).
• Screening individuals at risk for HBV exposure, including healthcare workers, individuals with certain risk behaviors, or those from high-prevalence areas.
• Monitoring the course of a known HBV infection and assessing treatment response.
• Screening pregnant women to prevent perinatal transmission of the virus to newborns.
• Diagnosing suspected cases of viral hepatitis when symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, and liver discomfort are present.
• Evaluating individuals for potential liver damage or disease progression related to HBV.

It is important to discuss your test results with a healthcare provider, as they can interpret the findings in the context of your overall health, symptoms, and medical history. A positive HBsAg result requires further evaluation to determine if the infection is acute or chronic and to guide appropriate management.