HBsAg Confirmatory Test

HBsAg Confirmatory Test: Price, Purpose, Range & Reports

Test Overview

The HBsAg Confirmatory Test is a specialised blood test used to verify the presence of the Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg). HBsAg is a protein marker on the surface of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), which causes an infection affecting the liver. When an initial screening test for HBsAg returns a positive or 'reactive' result, this confirmatory test is essential because screening tests can sometimes yield a False Positive.

Also known as the Hepatitis B Neutralisation Assay, HBsAg Neutralisation Test, or simply the Confirmatory HBsAg Test, it provides a definitive resolution to uncertainty. This test is crucial for rapid and accurate diagnosis, preventing unnecessary anxiety and ensuring timely medical intervention for those truly infected. If you are searching for a reliable HBsAg Confirmatory Test price near me or a convenient test near me, Apollo 24|7 provides accredited laboratory services with timely collection and secure, fast report access.

What is the HBsAg Confirmatory Test?

The HBsAg Confirmatory Test is a blood test ordered only when a previous screening test for HBsAg has returned a positive result. Its purpose is to definitively prove that the initial positive result was truly caused by the Hepatitis B Surface Antigen and not by cross-reactivity with other substances in the blood (a false positive).

The test typically employs highly specific methods, such as a Neutralisation Assay. In this procedure, the patient’s sample is tested with and without a specific neutralising agent designed to block the HBsAg. If the antigen is present, the neutraliser will bind to it, causing the signal to disappear or significantly decrease, thereby confirming the presence of the antigen. This advanced technique ensures maximum specificity and reliability.

A confirmed positive result indicates an active Hepatitis B infection (either acute or chronic). A confirmed negative result rules out the initial screening finding, providing clarity that the patient does not have an active HBV infection.

What is the HBsAg Confirmatory Test Price?

The HBsAg Confirmatory Test price is reflective of the highly specific and specialised immunological technology required to provide a definitive result, which is more complex than a standard screening test. The final cost of your test is influenced by several elements:

• Technology Used: The test relies on advanced, highly specific immunological techniques, such as the Neutralisation Assay, to eliminate false positives, which ensures maximum accuracy and reliability.
• Location: Prices may differ slightly between cities due to regional operating costs and logistics.
• Service Type: Opting for home sample collection may slightly adjust the total cost due to convenience and travel charges.
• Lab Accreditation: Tests conducted at NABL-accredited labs, such as those operated by Apollo, ensure high standards of accuracy and reliability, which is essential for results used in clinical diagnosis.

If you're trying to find the most accurate and affordable HBsAg Confirmatory Test price near me, the easiest way is to check the Apollo 24|7 website or app. They update prices regularly based on your location, so you’ll always see the latest rates and any available offers.

What is the Purpose of the HBsAg Confirmatory Test?

The primary purpose of the HBsAg Confirmatory Test is to eliminate diagnostic uncertainty following a reactive initial screening result for Hepatitis B.

Doctors recommend the HBsAg Confirmatory Test for the following key objectives:

• Rule Out False Positives: To definitively establish that a reactive HBsAg screening result is not a mistake due to non-specific reactions, thus preventing misdiagnosis.
• Confirm Active Infection: To officially confirm the presence of the Hepatitis B Surface Antigen, leading to a definitive diagnosis of acute or chronic HBV infection.
• Guide Treatment Decisions: A confirmed positive result allows physicians to proceed with further viral load testing (HBV DNA) and determine the necessity and timing of antiviral therapy.
• Provide Patient Certainty: To resolve the high anxiety caused by an initial positive result, ensuring that only truly infected patients receive follow-up monitoring and treatment.

Who Should Get an HBsAg Confirmatory Test Done?

The HBsAg Confirmatory Test is an adjunct diagnostic test, meaning it is only used when initial findings necessitate verification.

Doctors may recommend this test if you fall into one of these groups:

• Individuals with a Reactive HBsAg Screening: This is the primary and only indication for the confirmatory test if the initial, non-confirmatory HBsAg blood test returned a positive result.
• Pregnant Women with a Reactive Screen: Pregnant individuals found to be HBsAg positive on the initial screening must receive a confirmed diagnosis to protect the newborn from vertical transmission.
• Blood Donors with a Reactive Screen: Samples from donors that test reactive during mandatory screening must be confirmed to ensure the safety of the blood supply.

Note: If your initial HBsAg screening test was Negative (Non-Reactive), the HBsAg Confirmatory Test is not required.

Components of the HBsAg Confirmatory Test

This diagnostic test is focused on verifying the presence of one specific antigen in the bloodstream using a highly sensitive method.

The test is performed for:

• Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg): This parameter determines the verified presence of the surface protein of the Hepatitis B virus, which is indicative of an active HBV infection.

Understanding an HBsAg Confirmatory Test Report

The HBsAg Confirmatory Test is a qualitative test that provides a Non-Reactive (Negative) or Reactive (Positive) result. It does not measure the amount of the antigen (it is not quantitative). Since the test confirms the presence of an infection marker, the interpretation is straightforward:

• A Non-Reactive (Negative) result indicates that the initial positive screening result was a False Positive, and the HBsAg marker is not truly present. In patients with a low risk profile, a negative result typically rules out active HBV infection. Your healthcare provider may then discuss vaccination if you are not immune.
• A Reactive (Positive) result confirms that the initial screening result was accurate. The HBsAg marker is verified to be present in your blood, indicating an active Hepatitis B infection. Additional tests (such as HBV DNA, HBeAg, and liver function tests) will be required to determine the stage of the infection (acute or chronic) and to guide treatment.

Your healthcare provider will always interpret the HBsAg Confirmatory Test result in the context of your complete medical history and clinical presentation.

Preparation and Procedure for HBsAg Confirmatory Test

This test is straightforward and requires minimal patient preparation, allowing for rapid verification when clinical urgency is high.

1. How is the Test Done?

The HBsAg Confirmatory Test requires the collection of a venous blood sample. The procedure is brief and performed by a certified phlebotomist, usually taking blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then transported to the lab for specialised analysis using neutralisation or other specific immunological techniques.

2. Is Fasting Required for This Test?

No, fasting is not required for the HBsAg Confirmatory Test. Since this test measures the presence of an antigen (a protein), eating or drinking does not interfere with the accuracy of the result.

3. What Time of the Day Should I Undergo the Test?

You can undergo this test at any time of the day. In clinical practice, this test is often ordered immediately after a reactive screening result is received to provide a rapid, definitive diagnosis.

4. How Frequently Should I Undergo the Test?

The HBsAg Confirmatory Test is primarily a diagnostic tool used once to confirm or rule out an acute infection following a reactive screen. It is generally not repeated unless there is a specific clinical reason advised by your physician.

Booking HBsAg Confirmatory Test Online & Checking Reports

Apollo 24|7 simplifies the process of obtaining this critical diagnostic test, allowing you to schedule your collection and access your results securely online, ensuring timely communication with your doctor.

A. What are the Steps to Schedule the Test on Apollo 24|7?

1. Visit the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile application and search for the HBsAg Confirmatory Test.
2. Confirm the latest HBsAg Confirmatory Test price for your city and click the 'Book Now' button.
3. Select your preferred date and a convenient time slot for home collection.
4. Complete the secure online payment. Confirmation details and preparation reminders will be sent instantly.

B. How Do I Access My Test Results Online on Apollo 24|7?

Log in to your Apollo 24|7 account using your registered phone number or email.
Navigate to the 'Health Records' or 'My Reports' section on the dashboard.
Click on your completed test name to view the detailed report immediately.
You can easily view the entire report online or download it in PDF format to share with your physician.

Conclusion

The HBsAg Confirmatory Test is the definitive step in the diagnostic process for Hepatitis B, essential for ruling out false-positive results from initial screenings. It provides the certainty necessary to accurately diagnose an active HBV infection. A confirmed positive result facilitates the necessary path for monitoring and treatment, while a confirmed negative result offers crucial peace of mind.

For accurate and timely testing, platforms like Apollo 24|7 offer access to certified labs and dependable reporting, helping your doctor make informed decisions about your care.