What is HAV IgM?
HAV IgM (Hepatitis A Virus Immunoglobulin M) is a type of antibody that is secreted during the immune response to an acute Hepatitis A infection. Hepatitis A is a viral disease of the liver that is spread by contaminated food, water, or contact with an infected person. HAV IgM is usually present in the blood during the current or recent infection. It is important to identify it early to avoid the complications and further spread of the disease.
How is the Test Performed?
HAV IgM is a simple, minimally invasive blood test and is as follows;
Preparation
No special preparations are required for the test.
Alcohol consumption should be avoided before the test.
Inform your healthcare provider about the medications you are taking.
Collection Process
Collection of the sample is generally simple and requires drawing of the blood using a needle.
The technician then transfers the blood to a chemically treated tube to prevent the sample degradation and contamination.
Laboratory Analysis
An expert laboratory technician analyzes the sample for HAV IgM using advanced and modern technologies using chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) and enzyme-linked immunoassay which are highly sensitive methods.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
Your healthcare provider may suggest a HAV IgM test if you have symptoms of acute Hepatitis A or have been exposed to possibly contaminated sources.
General Symptoms
- Nausea
- Severe tiredness
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Appetite loss
- Pain in the abdomen
- Urine with a dark color
- Pale stools
- Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)
- Pain in the upper side of the abdomen
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
The HAV IgM test is qualitative meaning it is reported as positive or negative. The interpretation of the result is given below;
Negative – Absence of HAV IgM antibodies, that is no presence of an active or ongoing infection
Positive –Presence of HAV IgM antibodies, that is the presence of an active or ongoing Hepatitis A infection
**Consult your healthcare provider for an accurate interpretation of the results, accurate diagnosis, and early medical intervention.**
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
If your HAV IgM test is positive, then you need further assessment and management. Your healthcare provider may prescribe:
- Other liver function tests to determine the stage of the disease and the function of the liver.
- Monitoring and caregiving, as there is no specific treatment for Hepatitis A virus; the body has its own way of eliminating the virus.
- Rest, fluid, and changes in diet to help feel better and to allow the liver to heal.
- Do not take alcohol and certain medications that may affect the liver during the infection.
- Recommendation of vaccination and preventive measures for people in close contact to decrease the probability of spreading the disease.
- Most attacks of Hepatitis A are acute and subside on their own within a few weeks to months without any serious consequences. However, in some instances, it may cause liver failure, especially in patients with underlying liver disease.
