Name of the Procedure:

Acute Hepatitis Panel
Common name(s): Hepatitis Panel, Viral Hepatitis Test
Technical terms: Hepatitis A antibody (HAAb), IgM antibody (86709), Hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb), IgM antibody (86705), Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) (87340), Hepatitis C antibody (86803)

Summary

The Acute Hepatitis Panel is a blood test that checks for current or past infections with hepatitis viruses, specifically Types A, B, and C. This test helps diagnose hepatitis by detecting specific antibodies and antigens associated with these viruses.

Purpose

This test is used to diagnose liver infections caused by hepatitis A, B, and C viruses. The goal is to identify whether someone has a current or previous infection to guide appropriate treatment and prevent the spread of these viruses.

Indications

• Symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and dark urine
• Unexplained elevated liver enzymes
• Exposure to the hepatitis virus through contact with infected blood or body fluids
• Part of routine screening for individuals at high risk, such as healthcare workers or those with a history of drug use.

Preparation

• Generally, no special preparation is needed.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any medications they are taking.
• Other routine blood tests may be conducted alongside this panel.

Procedure Description

1. Blood Draw: A healthcare professional will use a needle to draw blood from a vein, usually in the arm.
2. Sample Handling: The blood sample is labeled and sent to a lab for analysis.
3. Lab Analysis: The lab will perform specific tests to detect antibodies and antigens related to hepatitis A, B, and C.

Duration

The blood draw takes about 10-15 minutes. Lab results are typically available within a few days to a week.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient setting, such as a healthcare provider's office, clinic, or hospital.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse to draw blood
• Laboratory technicians to analyze the sample
• Physician to interpret the results

Risks and Complications

• Minor bruising or discomfort at the blood draw site
• Rarely, fainting or infection can occur at the puncture site

Benefits

• Helps in the timely diagnosis of acute hepatitis infections.
• Guides appropriate treatment and management to prevent complications.
• Detects asymptomatic cases and helps prevent the spread of the virus.

Recovery

• No significant recovery is needed for the blood draw.
• Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Alternatives

• Instead of a panel, individual tests for hepatitis A, B, and C can be conducted, although this may be less efficient.
• Imaging studies or liver biopsies might be needed for further evaluation of liver condition but are more invasive than blood tests.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel a quick pinch or sting when the needle is inserted.
• Minimal discomfort or bruising may occur at the site of the blood draw.
• Pain is generally managed with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

Understanding the Acute Hepatitis Panel can provide peace of mind and ensure timely and appropriate care if hepatitis is suspected.