Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test in Mumbai - Price & Details

The hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test is one of the blood tests used to help diagnose hepatitis B infection. The test detects HBsAg, an antigen present on the surface of the hepatitis B virus. A positive test indicates the person is infected and poses a risk of transmission. Hepatitis B is a viral infection that spreads through contact with body fluids. The HBsAg test helps with early detection and risk monitoring, and is especially helpful for people at higher risk or presenting with jaundice-like symptoms.

Potential risks or complications

• The test procedure is generally safe with little to no risk.
• If you notice bruising, pain, or a rash at the puncture site, consult your healthcare provider immediately.

Limitations of the test

• The test only indicates active infection but does not confirm whether the status is acute or chronic.
• It can produce false results in the case of recent HBV vaccination.
• It cannot detect early infection during the 1 to 10-day window period.
• It does not tell about the severity of the infection.

Individuals with hepatitis B may or may not present with symptoms. The HBsAg test helps detect this underlying infection. One should get this test done if they are at high risk or have certain symptoms.

Symptoms of Hepatitis B Viral Infection

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver cells and produces jaundice or flu-like symptoms, which include:

• Fever
• Fatigue or weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Joint pain or swelling
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Dark-coloured urine
• Clay-coloured stools

Severe symptoms include:

• Liver cirrhosis
• Liver cancer
• Liver failure

Indications

The groups that are at higher risk and should get a routine screening test done include:

• Those who present with any of the above symptoms
• Those who have STDs such as HIV infection
• People who use injectable drugs or share needles
• Healthcare workers who come in contact with body fluids
• Patients who receive dialysis treatment
• Patients undergoing chemotherapy or on immunosuppressants
• Those who travel or live in high HBV-prevalent areas
• Those who have unprotected sex or multiple sexual partners
• Infants born to infected mothers
• Pregnant women

What to Expect Before the Test

• Fasting is usually not required before the test.
• Inform your doctor about any medications or vaccination history.
• Always consult your healthcare provider for any special instructions before the test.

What to Expect During the Blood Sample Collection

A blood sample is required for the test. The steps for sample collection are explained below:

• An elastic band is tied around your upper arm for increased blood flow.
• A needle is inserted into a vein in the inner arm to collect the sample.
• The needle is withdrawn, and a bandage is placed over the puncture site to stop minor bleeding.

What to Expect After the Test

• This blood sample collection procedure is generally safe with little to no risk.
• Feeling dizzy for a few seconds is common and usually resolves with little rest.

Note: If you notice anything unusual at the puncture site after this procedure, such as bleeding, pain, or a rash, contact your healthcare provider.

HBsAg test results are not quantitative and are reported as positive or negative. To know more about what these test results mean, refer to the table below:

Important note: The above information is for educational purposes only and cannot replace an expert’s guidance. Always consult a doctor to better understand your test results.

Further tests are recommended to assess the severity and status of the infection, which include:

• HBeAg (hepatitis B e-antigen) - To check for active multiplication of the virus in the blood.
• HBV DNA (viral load) - To assess the severity of infection by identifying viral load in the blood.
• Antibody tests - Includes anti-HBc, anti-HBe, and anti-HBs antibody tests to assess recovery, vaccination, or past exposure.
• Liver function tests (LFTs) - To check for inflammation or injury to liver cells.

In Mumbai, an HBsAg test via PharmEasy is generally available at around INR 479, with minor variations depending on the diagnostic partner, location, and any ongoing offers. To get a clearer understanding, you can compare HBsAg test prices across major cities in India.