Question 1

What is Acute Hepatitis B infection?

Accepted Answer

Acute Hepatitis B infection is a viral liver disease that develops within the first 6 months after exposure to the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is caused by the Hepatitis B virus, which is transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or other bodily fluids. The Hepatitis B Core Antibody IgM test is the most important test for diagnosing acute Hepatitis B infection because it specifically detects antibodies produced during recent infection.

Question 2

What causes Acute Hepatitis B infection?

Accepted Answer

Acute Hepatitis B infection is caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), which enters your body through contact with infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or other bodily fluids. The virus spreads through activities like unprotected sex with an infected person, sharing needles or syringes, accidental needle sticks in healthcare settings, or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. Unlike chronic Hepatitis B, acute infection occurs when your body is first exposed to the virus and typically develops symptoms within 1 to 4 months after exposure.

Question 3

What is the best test for Acute Hepatitis B infection?

Accepted Answer

The Hepatitis B Core Antibody IgM test is the most important test for diagnosing acute Hepatitis B infection because it specifically detects the IgM antibodies your immune system produces during a recent or ongoing infection. This antibody typically appears within 4 to 6 weeks after you are exposed to the virus and remains detectable for about 6 months, making it an excellent marker that distinguishes acute infection from past or chronic infection. The test can detect the infection even during the window period when other markers might not yet be present in your blood, ensuring accurate early diagnosis that is critical for proper treatment and preventing transmission to others.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Acute Hepatitis B infection?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have been exposed to someone with Hepatitis B, had unprotected sex with a new or multiple partners, shared needles or drug equipment, or experienced an accidental needle stick. Testing is also important if you notice symptoms like yellowing of your skin or eyes, dark urine, extreme fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, or loss of appetite. Healthcare workers, pregnant women, and people living with someone who has Hepatitis B should also get tested regularly. Early detection allows for prompt medical care and helps prevent spreading the virus to others.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Acute Hepatitis B infection?

Accepted Answer

Acute Hepatitis B infection symptoms typically appear 1 to 4 months after exposure and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark-colored urine, extreme fatigue, abdominal pain especially in the upper right side where your liver is located, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, joint pain, and fever. Some people, particularly children and some adults, may have no symptoms at all but can still spread the virus to others. When symptoms do appear, they usually last several weeks but can persist for up to 6 months in some cases.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Acute Hepatitis B infection?

Accepted Answer

People at higher risk for acute Hepatitis B infection include those who have unprotected sex with multiple partners or with someone infected with HBV, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs and share needles or other drug equipment, healthcare workers exposed to blood and bodily fluids, people living in the same household as someone with chronic Hepatitis B, individuals receiving hemodialysis, and babies born to infected mothers. International travelers to regions with high Hepatitis B rates, such as parts of Asia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands, also face increased risk. People with HIV or other sexually transmitted infections are at greater risk as well.

Question 7

What happens if Acute Hepatitis B infection is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If acute Hepatitis B infection is left untreated and your immune system cannot clear the virus, it can progress to chronic Hepatitis B infection, which affects about 5-10% of adults and up to 90% of infected infants. Chronic infection can lead to serious long-term liver problems including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver failure, and liver cancer. Even in acute cases that resolve on their own, failing to monitor the infection can result in severe liver damage, especially if you continue behaviors that stress your liver like drinking alcohol. Without proper diagnosis and monitoring, you also risk unknowingly transmitting the virus to sexual partners, family members, or others through blood contact.

Question 8

Can Acute Hepatitis B infection be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, acute Hepatitis B infection is primarily diagnosed through specific blood tests that detect antibodies and antigens produced in response to the Hepatitis B virus. The Hepatitis B Core Antibody IgM test is the key diagnostic marker for acute infection, as it identifies antibodies that appear early in infection and distinguish recent infection from past exposure. Additional blood tests may include Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) to confirm active infection, and liver function tests to assess how well your liver is working. Blood testing is highly accurate and can detect the infection even before symptoms appear, making it the gold standard for diagnosis.

Question 9

How is Acute Hepatitis B infection treated?

Accepted Answer

Most cases of acute Hepatitis B infection do not require specific antiviral treatment because your immune system can clear the virus on its own within 6 months. Treatment focuses on supportive care including getting plenty of rest, staying well-hydrated, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding alcohol and medications that can stress your liver. Your doctor will monitor your liver function through regular blood tests to ensure the infection is resolving properly. In severe cases where acute infection causes liver failure or in people with weakened immune systems, antiviral medications may be prescribed. If the infection becomes chronic, long-term antiviral therapy may be necessary to prevent liver damage.

Question 10

How can I prevent Acute Hepatitis B infection?

Accepted Answer

The most effective way to prevent acute Hepatitis B infection is to get vaccinated with the Hepatitis B vaccine, which is safe, highly effective, and provides long-lasting protection. Practice safe sex by using condoms correctly and limiting your number of sexual partners. Never share needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment, and avoid sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes that might have blood on them. Healthcare workers should follow standard precautions and use protective equipment when handling blood or bodily fluids. If you are exposed to Hepatitis B, post-exposure prophylaxis with the vaccine and Hepatitis B immune globulin can prevent infection if given within 24 hours.

Question 11

What can I do at home for Acute Hepatitis B infection?

Accepted Answer

At home, focus on supporting your liver and immune system by getting plenty of rest to help your body fight the infection. Drink lots of water and clear fluids to stay hydrated and help flush toxins from your system. Eat small, frequent meals with easily digestible foods if you experience nausea, and focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Completely avoid alcohol and limit medications like acetaminophen that can stress your liver. Avoid sharing personal items and practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently to prevent spreading the virus to others in your household. Monitor your symptoms and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you develop severe abdominal pain, confusion, or worsening jaundice.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Acute Hepatitis B Infection Blood Test

What is Acute Hepatitis B infection?

What causes Acute Hepatitis B infection?

What is the best test for Acute Hepatitis B infection?

When should I get tested for Acute Hepatitis B infection?

References

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