Pre-Operative Basic Package
Understanding Pre-Operative Basic Package
What is Pre-Operative Basic Package?
The Pre-Operative Basic Package includes a set of blood and urine tests that helps assess your overall health before an operative procedure (surgery). These tests help identify any underlying medical condition that could affect the operative procedure or the recovery process.
The Pre-Operative Basic Package package comprises a set of standard blood work and urine examination that helps assess the overall condition of an individual before the planned operative procedure. It includes 52 tests such as complete blood count test (CBC), blood grouping test, blood coagulation profile, thyroid profile, blood sugar test, thyroid profile, creatinine test, alanine transaminase (SGPT) enzyme test, urine examination, HIV combo (antigen and antibody) test, hepatitis antigen and an antibody test (B and C respectively). The purpose of these tests is to identify any potential issues and risk factors early on; detect any underlying medical condition that could impact the operative procedure and postoperative recovery process. The information from these tests will help the doctor tailor the surgical approach, anesthesia management, and postoperative care to minimize the risks after an operative procedure.
Few special preparations need to be considered before undertaking the Pre-Operative Basic Package. However, these preparations may vary depending on the individual test included in this package. You are required to submit all the samples that are a part of this package during the sample collection itself. Additionally, inform your doctor about any medications or supplements that you may be taking before undergoing for the Pre-Operative Basic Package as few of them may affect your test results, potentially requiring adjustments or temporary discontinuation before the test.
Lab test results may vary across different laboratories. Never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for proper understanding of the test results. The test results will help your doctor make informed decisions, ensuring a hassle-free operative procedure.
What is Pre-Operative Basic Package used for?
The Pre-Operative Basic Package is done:
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To assess overall health before surgery.
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To identify possible health problems that could affect the surgery or recovery.
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To determine baseline levels of important markers such as blood cell count, kidney function, enzyme levels etc before surgery.
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To tailor surgical approach and postoperative care strategies basis the individual health condition.
What does Pre-Operative Basic Package measure?
Contains 52 testsThe Pre-Operative Basic Package offers a thorough assessment of an individual's health and helps identify the risk factors before surgery. This package includes a range of 52 tests that helps identify any medical condition that could complicate surgery or affect the anesthesia management. It comprises complete blood count (CBC) test, blood group test and coagulation profile that provide insights into potential anemia, clotting disorders, infections and type of blood group. Additionally, this package includes blood sugar test, thyroid profile, creatinine test , alanine transaminase (SGPT) enzyme test, urine examination, HIV combo (antigen and antibody) test, hepatitis antigen and an antibody test (B and C respectively). These tests help identify any underlying medical condition that could complicate surgery or affect the anesthesia management.
CBC (Complete Blood Count)
The CBC (Complete Blood Count) test evaluates red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs}, and platelets. Each of these blood cells performs essential functions–RBCs carry oxygen from your lungs to the various body parts, WBCs help fight infections and other diseases, and platelets help your blood to clot–so determining their levels can provide significant health information. A CBC test also determines the hemoglobin level, a protein in RBC that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body. Evaluating all these components together can provide important information about your overall health.
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Differential Leukocyte Count
- Differential Neutrophil Count
- Differential Lymphocyte Count
- Differential Monocyte Count
- Differential Eosinophil Count
- Differential Basophil Count
There are five types of WBCs: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. A Differential Leukocyte Count test measures the percentage of each type of WBC in the blood. Leukocytes or WBCs are produced in the bone marrow and defend the body against infections and diseases. Each type of WBC plays a unique role to protect against infections and is present in different numbers.
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Red Blood Cell Count
The Red Blood Cell Count test measures the total number of red blood cells in your blood. RBCs are the most abundant cells in the blood with an average lifespan of 120 days. These cells are produced in the bone marrow and destroyed in the spleen or liver. Their primary function is to help carry oxygen from the lungs to different body parts. The normal range of RBC count can vary depending on age, gender, and the equipment and methods used for testing.
Hb (Hemoglobin)
An Hb (Hemoglobin) test measures the concentration of hemoglobin protein in your blood. Hemoglobin is made up of iron and globulin proteins. It is an essential part of RBCs and is critical for oxygen transfer from the lungs to all body tissues. Most blood cells, including RBCs, are produced regularly in your bone marrow. The Hb test is a fundamental part of a complete blood count (CBC) and is used to monitor blood health, diagnose various blood disorders, and assess your response to treatments if needed.
Platelet Count
The Platelet Count test measures the average number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are disk-shaped tiny cells originating from large cells known as megakaryocytes, which are found in the bone marrow. After the platelets are formed, they are released into the blood circulation. Their average life span is 7-10 days.
Platelets help stop the bleeding, whenever there is an injury or trauma to a tissue or blood vessel, by adhering and accumulating at the injury site and releasing chemical compounds that stimulate the gathering of more platelets. A loose platelet plug is formed at the site of injury and this process is known as primary hemostasis. These activated platelets support the coagulation pathway that involves a series of steps, including the sequential activation of clotting factors; this process is known as secondary hemostasis. After this step, there is a formation of fibrin strands that form a mesh incorporated into and around the platelet plug. This mesh strengthens and stabilizes the blood clot so that it remains in place until the injury heals. After healing, other factors come into play and break the clot down so that it gets removed. In case the platelets are not sufficient in number or not functioning properly, a stable clot might not form. These unstable clots can result in an increased risk of excessive bleeding.
Total Leukocyte Count
The Total Leukocyte Count test measures the numbers of all types of leukocytes, namely neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, eosinophil, and basophil, in your blood. Leukocytes or WBCs are an essential part of our immune system. These cells are produced in the bone marrow and defend the body against infections and diseases. Each type of WBC plays a unique role to protect against infections and is present in different numbers.
Hematocrit
The Hematocrit test measures the proportion of red blood cells (RBCs) in your blood as a percentage of the total blood volume. It is a crucial part of a complete blood count (CBC) and helps in assessing your blood health. RBCs are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to different parts of the body. The hematocrit test provides valuable information about your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity.
Higher-than-normal amounts of RBCs produced by the bone marrow can cause the hematocrit to increase, leading to increased blood density and slow blood flow. On the other hand, lower-than-normal hematocrit can be caused by low production of RBCs, reduced lifespan of RBCs in circulation, or excessive bleeding, leading to a reduced amount of oxygen being transported by RBCs. Monitoring your hematocrit levels is essential for diagnosing and managing various blood-related disorders.
Mean Corpuscular Volume
The Mean Corpuscular Volume test measures the average size of your red blood cells, which carry oxygen through your body. This test tells whether your RBCs are of average size and volume or whether they are bigger or smaller.
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
An MCH test measures the average amount of hemoglobin in a single red blood cell (RBC). Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein in RBCs, and its major function is to transport oxygen from the lungs to all body parts. This test provides information about how much oxygen is being delivered to the body by a certain number of RBCs.
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration
An MCHC test measures the average amount of hemoglobin in a given volume of RBCs. MCHC is calculated by dividing the amount of hemoglobin by hematocrit (volume of blood made up of RBCs) and then multiplying it by 100.
Absolute Leucocyte Count
- Absolute Eosinophil Count
- Absolute Neutrophil Count
- Absolute Basophil Count
- Absolute Lymphocyte Count
- Absolute Monocyte Count
The Absolute Leucocyte Count test measures the total number of white blood cells (leucocytes) in the given volume of blood. It examines different types of white blood cells such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, basophils and eosinophils. These cells tell about the status of the immune system and its ability to fight off infections and other conditions like inflammation, allergies, bone marrow disorders etc.
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Mean Platelet Volume
An MPV test measures the average size of the platelets in your blood. Platelets are disk-shaped tiny cells originating from large cells known as megakaryocytes, which are found in the bone marrow. After the platelets are formed, they are released into the blood circulation. Their average life span is 7-10 days.
Platelets help stop bleeding whenever there is an injury or trauma to a tissue or blood vessel by adhering and accumulating at the injury site, and by releasing chemical compounds that stimulate the gathering of more platelets. After these steps, a loose platelet plug is formed at the site of injury, and this process is known as primary hemostasis. These activated platelets support the coagulation pathway that involves a series of steps including the sequential activation of clotting factors; this process is known as secondary hemostasis. After this, there is a formation of fibrin strands that form a mesh incorporated into and around the platelet plug. This mesh strengthens and stabilizes the blood clot so that it remains in place until the injury heals. After healing, other factors come into play and break the clot down so that it gets removed. In case the platelets are not sufficient in number or are not functioning properly, a stable clot might not form. These unstable clots can result in an increased risk of excessive bleeding.
PDW
The PDW test reflects variability in platelet size, and is considered a marker of platelet function and activation (clot formation in case of an injury). This marker can give you additional information about your platelets and the cause of a high or low platelet count. Larger platelets are usually younger platelets that have been recently released from the bone marrow, while smaller platelets may be older and have been in circulation for a few days. Higher PDW values reflect a larger range of platelet size, which may result from increased activation, destruction and consumption of platelets.
RDW CV
The RDW CV test which is part of red cell indices, helps identify characteristics of red blood cells. RDW (red cell distribution width) measures the variations in the sizes of red blood cells, indicating how much they differ from each other in a blood sample. RDW is expressed as RDW-CV, a coefficient of variation. A higher RDW may suggest more variation in red cell sizes, while a lower RDW indicates more uniform red cell sizes.
Serum Creatinine
The Serum Creatinine test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. Creatinine is a byproduct of muscles’ wear and tear during energy production. The kidneys remove it from the body by filtering it from the blood and releasing it into the urine. Therefore, blood creatinine levels indicate how well the kidneys are functioning in filtering and removing waste products from the blood. Generally, higher creatinine levels in the blood may indicate reduced kidney function, while lower levels may suggest decreased muscle mass.
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RBS (Random Blood Sugar)
An RBS (Random Blood Sugar) test is done to measure the levels of glucose at any time of the day. This test provides a speedy diagnosis of diabetes. It is also helpful in identifying diabetic patients who require a supplementary dose of insulin in case of an emergency.
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PT INR (Prothrombin Time)
The PT INR (Prothrombin Time) test measures the Prothrombin Time (PT) and reports it as the International Normalized Ratio (INR). The PT measures how long it takes for blood to clot. Specifically, it assesses the factors in the blood that help initiate the clotting process. The INR is a standardized interpretation of the PT results. It is calculated to ensure consistency in interpreting PT values across different laboratories and testing methods. It is particularly important when monitoring patients on anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin. The INR helps adjust medication dosages to maintain blood clotting within a therapeutic range.
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Blood Group ABO & RH Factor Test
The Blood Group ABO & RH Factor Test determines your blood type and Rh factor. Healthcare providers can ensure compatibility and prevent adverse reactions during medical interventions by identifying an individual's blood type and Rh factor. This test is essential for various medical procedures, including blood transfusions, organ transplants, and prenatal care.
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Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time
An Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time test measures the time taken by the blood to form a clot. In other words, it is a screening test that helps evaluate a person’s ability to form blood clots. The test analyzes the amount and the function of specific proteins in the blood called coagulation or clotting factors, which are an essential part of blood clot formation.
Blood clotting or coagulation occurs through a series of cascade reactions due to the activation of clotting factors. There are a total of thirteen clotting factors within our bodies that aid in clot formation, and for healthy clot formation, all clotting factors need to be in the right balance. Any imbalance of these factors can lead to a blood clotting disorder.
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SGPT
An SGPT test measures the amount of ALT or SGPT enzyme in your blood. ALT is most abundantly found in the liver but is also present in smaller amounts in other organs like the kidneys, heart, and muscles. Its primary function is to convert food into energy. It also speeds up chemical reactions in the body. These chemical reactions include the production of bile and substances that help your blood clot, break down food and toxins, and fight off an infection.
Elevated levels of ALT in the blood may indicate liver damage or injury. When the liver cells are damaged, they release ALT into the bloodstream, causing an increase in ALT levels. Therefore, the SGPT/ALT test is primarily used to assess the liver's health and to detect liver-related problems such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, or other liver disorders.
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HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test
An HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test simultaneously detects HIV p24 antigen and antibodies associated with HIV 1 & 2. The HIV p24 antigen is the most abundant HIV protein and its detection is used clinically to diagnose an HIV infection early on since HIV-specific antibodies are not detectable in a very recently acquired infection. HIV-1 was discovered first and is the most widespread, whereas HIV-2 is more than 55% genetically different from HIV-1. The transmission rate of HIV-2 is also slower than HIV-1.
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Urine R/M (Urine Routine & Microscopy)
The Urine R/M (Urine Routine & Microscopy) test involves gross, chemical, and microscopic evaluation of the urine sample.
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Gross examination: It involves visually inspecting the urine sample for color and appearance. Typically, the urine color ranges from colorless or pale yellow to deep amber, depending on the urine’s concentration. Things such as medications, supplements, and some foods such as beetroot can affect the color of your urine. However, unusual urine color can also be a sign of disease.
In appearance, the urine sample may be clear or cloudy. A clear appearance is indicative of healthy urine. However, the presence of red blood cells, white blood cells, bacteria, etc., may result in cloudy urine, indicating conditions such as dehydration, UTIs, kidney stones, etc. Some other factors, such as sperm and skin cells, may also result in a cloudy appearance but are harmless.
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Chemical examination: It examines the chemical nature of the urine sample using special test strips called dipsticks. These test strips are dipped into the urine sample and change color when they come in contact with specific substances. The degree of color change estimates the amount of the substance present. Some common things detected include protein, urine pH, ketones, glucose, specific gravity, blood, bilirubin, nitrites, and urobilinogen.
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Microscopic examination: This involves the analysis of the urine sample under the microscope for pus cells, red blood cells, casts, crystals, bacteria, yeast. and other constituents.
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Urobilinogen
The Urobilinogen test measures the amount of urobilinogen present in the urine. Urobilinogen is a substance formed from the breakdown of bilirubin, a by-product of old red blood cells processed by the liver. This test plays a key role in assessing liver function and detecting liver diseases.
Under normal circumstances, the liver converts bilirubin into urobilinogen. Some of this urobilinogen is reabsorbed into the blood, excreted by the kidneys, and then eliminated from the body through urine. However, when liver function is impaired, the amount of urobilinogen in the urine can change. Hence, the Urobilinogen test serves as an important indicator of abnormalities such as liver disease or blockage of the bile ducts.
Ketone
Nitrite
The Nitrite test measures the presence of nitrites in the urine sample. Nitrites are chemicals formed by the conversion of nitrates by certain bacteria. Under normal conditions, urine does not contain nitrites. However, when bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) are present, they convert nitrates (which are normally found in the urine) into nitrites. Thus, the presence of nitrites in urine is an indication of a bacterial infection, making the Nitrite test a key tool in diagnosing UTIs.
Colour
The urine colour test primarily measures the concentration and colour of urine to provide insights into an individual’s overall health. It assesses hydration status, with clear to light yellow urine indicating good hydration and darker shades suggesting dehydration. It can also detect urinary tract infections (UTIs) through unusual colours like cloudy or reddish urine, signaling the presence of blood or pus. Abnormal urine colours, such as dark brown or amber, may indicate liver conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis, while pink, red, or brown urine can reveal the presence of blood, signaling kidney issues, trauma, or potential malignancies. The test can reflect dietary influences and supplement intake, with certain foods and vitamins causing colour changes. It can also highlight metabolic disorders, such as porphyria, which may cause purple urine. Additionally, medication effects and potential exposure to toxins can be inferred from changes in urine colour, making this test a comprehensive indicator of overall health and potential underlying conditions.
Appearance
The urine appearance test measures:
Colour: The urine colour indicates the presence of substances like bilirubin, blood, or medications in the urine, providing clues about liver function, hydration levels, or underlying health issues.
Clarity: The urine clarity assesses the transparency of urine, which can reveal the presence of cells, proteins, or other particles that may indicate infections or kidney disease.
Odor: The urine odor detects abnormal smells that may indicate infections or metabolic disorders affecting the urinary system.
By examining these aspects, doctors can gain insights into hydration status, kidney function, and potential health conditions affecting the urinary tract. This comprehensive evaluation aids in timely diagnosis and management of potential urinary tract problems.
Specific Gravity
The urine Specific Gravity test measures the concentration of solutes in the urine, reflecting the kidneys' ability to concentrate or dilute the urine in response to varying hydration levels. By comparing the density of urine to that of water, the test provides insights into the balance of fluids and substances like salts, waste products, and other solutes. This test is important because it helps diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, including dehydration, kidney disease, diabetes insipidus, and other disorders affecting kidney function, enabling timely and appropriate medical interventions.
Pus Cell
The pus cells test measures the presence and quantity of pus cells in urine samples. This test helps identify urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other inflammatory conditions of the urinary tract. Doctors perform this test to promptly diagnose and manage urinary tract-related disorders, ensuring timely treatment and management.
Epithelial Cell
The Epithelial Cell test measures the presence and quantity of epithelial cells shed into the urine. This test helps doctors understand urinary tract health by identifying abnormalities such as infections, inflammation, or damage to kidney tubules. Different types of epithelial cells in urine, including squamous, transitional, and renal tubular epithelial cells, provide specific insights into the nature and location of urinary tract issues. This test aids in diagnosing conditions affecting the urinary system and guides appropriate treatment strategies based on the findings.
Casts
The urinary cast test measures the presence, and quantity of casts in a urine sample. These casts are cylindrical structures formed from coagulated proteins and cells within the kidney's tubules. By identifying and quantifying the different types of casts, such as red blood cell casts, white blood cell casts, granular casts, and hyaline casts, the test provides valuable insights into kidney health. The presence of specific types of casts can indicate underlying kidney conditions, such as glomerulonephritis, kidney infections, acute tubular necrosis, and chronic kidney disease. This test helps doctors diagnose, monitor, and manage kidney-related issues, guiding appropriate medical interventions and treatments.
Crystals
The Crystals test measures the presence, type, and quantity of crystals in a urine sample. Crystals can form from various salts and minerals in the urine, and their identification helps diagnose underlying conditions such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or metabolic disorders. The test provides insights into potential urinary tract issues by detecting specific types of crystals, such as calcium oxalate, uric acid, or struvite crystals. By analyzing the crystals, doctors can determine the severity of the condition, monitor the effectiveness of treatment, and guide preventive measures to maintain optimal urinary tract health.
Protein Urine
Ph for Urine
Urine Glucose
Yeast
The urine yeast test measures the presence of yeast cells in the urine sample. The presence of yeast cells can indicate an infection or an imbalance in the urinary tract's natural microbial environment. Yeast is a type of fungus that naturally resides in small amounts on the skin, in the mouth, and in the intestines. However, when it overgrows, it can cause infections, such as yeast infections in the urinary tract which require medical attention. Therefore this test is crucial for identifying fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species, and plays a vital role in guiding appropriate treatment strategies.
Red Blood Cells
The Red Blood Cells test measures the presence and amount of red blood cells (RBCs) in a urine sample. The primary purpose of the test is to detect hematuria, a condition characterized by the presence of blood in the urine. Hematuria can be either visible (gross hematuria) or invisible to the naked eye (microscopic hematuria), and the RBC Urine Test is capable of detecting both. It serves as an early indicator of various underlying health conditions ranging from urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, and kidney disease, to more serious conditions such as bladder cancer or trauma to the urinary tract. Early identification of hematuria through the RBC Urine Test can prompt timely treatment and management of these conditions, which can significantly improve patient outcomes and prevent complications.
Leucocyte Esterase
The Leucocyte Esterase test measures the presence of leukocyte esterase (an enzyme released by white blood cells) in urine samples, which are typically present when there is an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. Common conditions associated with elevated leukocyte esterase levels include urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney infections (pyelonephritis), and interstitial cystitis. When the body's immune system detects pathogens such as bacteria, it sends white blood cells to the affected area to combat the infection, leading to an increase in leukocyte esterase levels in the urine. Thus, the Leucocyte Esterase test serves as a marker for these underlying issues ensuring early detection and appropriate treatment.
Blood
The Blood test measures the presence of blood in the urine sample, indicating potential issues within the urinary system or kidneys. This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as hematuria, urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, kidney disease, or even certain cancers that can cause bleeding in the urinary tract.
Depending on whether the blood is visible to the naked eye (macroscopic hematuria) or only detectable under a microscope (microscopic hematuria), doctors can assess the severity and potential causes of the bleeding. By analyzing the presence of blood in the urine sample, doctors can determine the appropriate course of treatment and management, ensuring timely intervention to address underlying health concerns affecting urinary tract and kidney function.
Bacteria
The Bacteria test measures the presence and amount of bacteria in the urine. Normally, urine is sterile, but the presence of bacteria indicates an infection in the urinary system. This test helps diagnose UTIs, bladder infections, and other related conditions, guiding appropriate treatment plans.
Bilirubin
The Bilirubin test measures the levels of bilirubin present in the urine. Bilirubin is a by-product of the breakdown of old red blood cells, processed by the liver. This test is crucial in assessing liver function and detecting liver diseases.
Normally, the liver converts bilirubin into a form that can be excreted into bile and eventually eliminated from the body. When liver function is impaired, the amount of bilirubin in the urine can change, serving as an important indicator of abnormalities such as liver disease or bile duct blockage.
Thyroid Profile Total (T3, T4 & TSH)
The Thyroid Profile Total (T3, T4 & TSH) measures the levels of three hormones in the blood, namely triiodothyronine hormone (T3) total, thyroxine hormone (T4) total, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). T3 and T4 are thyroid hormones that help regulate metabolism and energy levels in the body. On the other hand, TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T3 and T4 hormones. The serum levels of the thyroid hormones and TSH have an inverse relationship, i.e., low T4 (as observed in hypothyroidism) and high T4 (as seen in hyperthyroidism) levels are associated with high and low TSH levels, respectively.
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Thyroxine - Total
The Thyroxine - Total test measures both the bound and unbound/free form of thyroxine (T4) hormone in the blood. T4 exists in the blood in two forms: bound (attached to proteins) and free (not attached to proteins). Most of the T4 circulating in the blood is bound to proteins and only a small part is free. It is necessary to maintain a fine balance of these forms to ensure the proper functioning of the body.
Triiodothyronine Total
The Triiodothyronine Total test measures triiodothyronine, also known as T3, hormone that is produced by the thyroid gland. T3 hormone plays an important role in regulating the body's metabolism, energy levels, and growth & development. It exists in the blood in two forms: free T3 and bound T3. Free T3 is not bound to proteins in the blood and is the active form of T3. Whereas, bound T3 is bound to proteins, such as albumin and thyroid hormone binding globulin (THBG), which prevent it from entering the body tissues.
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive
The TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive test measures the levels of TSH hormone in the blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland located in the brain. Its function is to stimulate and regulate the functioning of the thyroid gland. It signals the thyroid gland to increase or decrease the production of thyroid hormones T3 and T4 (essential for regulating our body’s metabolism, temperature, heart rate, and growth) when their levels are low or high, respectively. Therefore, when the levels of T3 & T4 decrease, the pituitary gland is stimulated to release TSH. This high TSH level, in turn, stimulates the thyroid gland to release more thyroid hormones (T3 & T4); the vice-versa happens when the levels of thyroid hormones increase.
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody
The Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody test determines the status of current hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection or past HCV infection that has been resolved. This test, therefore, helps your doctor to guide an appropriate treatment plan. HCV causes liver inflammation and is classified into acute hepatitis infection and chronic hepatitis infection.
- Acute hepatitis C: This occurs in the first six months after exposure to the hepatitis C virus. In the early stage of the infection, acute hepatitis C is mild and may cause no symptoms. For this reason, most people do not know they have this infection.
- Chronic hepatitis C: If your body is unable to fight off the virus, you can develop a chronic hepatitis C infection. Progression from acute to chronic hepatitis C is common, occurring in about 75-85% of patients. Detecting chronic hepatitis C at the early stage is important to prevent future complications, such as liver failure, and initiate effective treatment.
The Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody test is used for screening for anti-HCV antibodies. A reactive result needs to be confirmed by other more specific NAT/ nucleic acid tests before final diagnosis.
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Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)
The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) test detects the presence of a specific protein on the surface of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the bloodstream. This protein, HBsAg, serves as a crucial marker for identifying HBV infection. This is a screening test and the diagnosis of any reactive HBsAg result relies on additional supplemental tests like anti-HBs antibody and total anti-HBc antibodies. Confirmation can be done using nucleic acid tests like HBV DNA by PCR. The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) test is essential for identifying individuals who require medical intervention, such as antiviral therapy, and for implementing measures to prevent the spread of Hepatitis B virus to others.
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