Main content Hepatitis A Virus Test

    Hepatitis A Virus Test



    Results

    Reference Hepatitis A Opens New Window virus (HAV) test is a blood test that looks for proteins (Reference antibodies Opens New Window) made by the body in response to the virus that causes hepatitis A.

    Negative results of hepatitis virus testing mean that no antibodies against the hepatitis virus were found. Positive results mean that hepatitis A antibodies were found. Results are usually available in 5 to 7 days.

    Hepatitis A test
    Negative:

    No hepatitis A virus (HAV) antibodies are found.
    Positive:

    Hepatitis A virus (HAV) antibodies are found. You may need more tests to find out if you have a present, active infection or a past, resolved infection.

    • IgM anti-HAV antibodies are found if you have an active or a recent infection. IgM antibodies usually show up in the blood as early as 2 weeks after you become infected with HAV, when symptoms of hepatitis A are present, and last for a few months after symptoms have gone away.
    • Only IgG anti-HAV antibodies are found if you have had an infection in the past or when you have had the hepatitis A vaccine. This means that you are protected against the infection.



    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference August 30, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference W. Thomas London, MD - Hepatology


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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