What is diagnostic for a current active hepatitis A infection?
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The diagnostic gold standard for hepatitis A is the detection of anti-hepatitis A virus (HAV) IgM antibodies and the determination of total anti-HAV by enzyme immunoassay. However, detection of HAV RNA can be useful in the diagnosis of patients without specific antibodies for hepatitis A and for the monitoring of infection. Studies using real-time PCR have demonstrated that HAV RNA can be detected not only in feces, but also in serum and saliva samples earlier than detection of antibodies, and that viremia may be present for a much longer period than the convalescent phase of hepatitis A. Alternative samples have been proposed for diagnosis, epidemiological studies, investigation of outbreaks and selection of persons receptive to vaccination. Understanding the events of clinical course that take place during the hepatitis A infection may lead to more effective diagnosis. Show
The various human hepatitis viruses cause very similar symptoms. Therefore, neither the individual nor the healthcare provider can tell by symptoms or signs if a given individual is suffering from hepatitis A unless laboratory tests are performed. Fortunately, blood tests are widely available to accurately diagnose hepatitis A, including tests for antibodies, or the affected person’s immune response to hepatitis A proteins. This immune response is conclusively demonstrated by the presence of Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies, indicating acute disease, and immunoglobulin G (IgG), indicating a past infection or vaccination. The IgG antibodies are present for life, indicating immunity. HAV RNA is present in blood and feces soon after infection (while an individual is asymptomatic), until 1 to 2 weeks after the onset of symptoms. Longer shedding in feces can occur in children and those infected with HIV. HAV is also shed in saliva and urine, but no assays are available to detect this. Blood tests are used to look for signs of the hepatitis A virus in your body. A sample of blood is taken, usually from a vein in your arm. It's sent to a laboratory for testing. TreatmentNo specific treatment exists for hepatitis A. Your body will clear the hepatitis A virus on its own. In most cases of hepatitis A, the liver heals within six months with no lasting damage. Hepatitis A treatment usually focuses on keeping comfortable and controlling symptoms. You may need to:
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What does it mean if hepatitis A is reactive?This assay detects the presence of Hepatitis A specific antibodies (IgG + IgM). A non-reactive result indicates a lack of immunity to Hepatitis A infection. A reactive result indicates either vaccination, past infection, or current infection.
Which laboratory test result is most conclusive in confirming a diagnosis of hepatitis A?Serological Diagnosis. Enzyme Immunoassays (ELISA) The laboratory diagnosis of hepatitis A can be made by specific serological tests for detection of anti-HAV IgM. The presence of these antibodies in most subjects early in the infection means that their detection is the most important tool for diagnosis.
What is the laboratory diagnosis of hepatitis?Blood tests can detect signs of the hepatitis B virus in your body and tell your provider whether it's acute or chronic. A simple blood test can also determine if you're immune to the condition. Liver ultrasound. A special ultrasound called transient elastography can show the amount of liver damage.
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