Anti-HBs: what does the test result indicate?

Anti-HBs: what does the test result indicate?


The test is performed to identify the concentration of antibodies against the hepatitis B virus. Understanding how the anti-HBs test works




What is the anti-HBs test for?

The anti-HBs test is used to identify the amount of antibodies a person has in the blood against HBs Hepatitis Ba disease caused by a virus that causes inflammation of the liver. According to Sheila Pinto, a pharmacist at Badim Hospital, the exam is generally indicated for patients who have received treatment for the disease or after vaccination.

A person infected with the virus hepatitis B has some viral markers that can be identified by analyzing blood. Virus surface antigen (AgHBs) is a marker of infection and the presence of antibodies against this antigen (anti-HBs) indicates protection against the disease.

How does the anti-HBs test work?

According to Sheila, there is no need to fast or do any kind of preparation before the exam. The laboratory professional collects a blood sample from the patient, which will undergo a serological analysis process.

If the result shows the presence of anti-HBs, the test should be repeated. “After 30 and 60 days, it is recommended to perform a new test in case of positive anti-HBs. The reason is that, due to infection with different subtypes of the hepatitis virus or the formation of immune complexes (or antibody complex -antigen ), the test may indicate a false positive result”, explains the pharmacist.

Results of anti-HBs tests

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See also

Hepatitis B: what it is, symptoms, transmission and if there is a cure

Viral hepatitis kills more than 1 million people a year and is the theme of Red May

4 types of cancer caused by viruses

The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and available to people up to 49 years of age

Correct diet during treatment of hepatitis

Source: Terra

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