Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Screen, Qualitative
Also known as: HBsAg, HBV, Hepatitis-associated Antigen, Qualitative HBV surface antigen
Use
This assay can be used in conjunction with other serological and clinical information to diagnose individuals with acute or chronic hepatitis B infection. This assay may also be used to screen for hepatitis B infection in pregnant women to identify neonates who are at risk of acquiring hepatitis B during the perinatal period.
Special Instructions
This test may exhibit interference when sample is collected from a person who is consuming a supplement with a high dose of biotin. Patients should be cautioned to stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection of a sample.
Limitations
Patients who are negative for HBsAg may still have acute type B viral hepatitis. There is sometimes a 'core window' stage when HBsAg has become negative and the patient has not yet developed the antibody (anti-HBs). On such occasions, both tests for anti-HBc are usually positive and anti-HBc, IgM is the only specific marker for the diagnosis of acute infection with hepatitis B. In cases with strong clinical suspicion of viral hepatitis, serologic testing should not be limited to detecting HBsAg, but should include a battery of tests to evaluate different stages of acute and convalescent hepatitis. The performance characteristics of this assay have not been determined for use in cadaveric specimens.
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5196-1
- 5196-1
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
3.5 mL
Minimum Volume
1.5 mL
Container
Gel-barrier tube, red-top tube or serum transfer tube
Collection Instructions
If tube other than a gel-barrier tube is used, transfer separated serum to a screw-cap polypropylene transport tube. Do not freeze gel-barrier tube (pour off serum first).
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Non-EDTA plasma specimen; PST gel-barrier tube
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |