Home›Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV)

Content created by

Written by

BDS, MDS - Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology

Reviewed by

Dr. Ashish Ranjan

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Want to know more?
Read our Editorial Policy

Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV)

Also known as Triple H (HIV, HBV, HCV), HIV Combo+HbsAg+Anti-HCV, Screening-CMIA/CLIA

Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) Includes 3 testsView All

₹1409~~₹2000~~ 29% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

A duly filled Consent form for HIV testing & Pre-test counselling (Annexure - CR/01) is mandatory.

Understanding Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV)

What is Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV)?

A Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test is a screening test for identifying hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis C virus antibodies and Combo HIV (antigen and antibody) detection.

HIV causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and attacks the immune cells that help the body fight infection, making an individual more vulnerable to other infections and diseases. Hepatitis B and C are highly contagious infections and are caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus(HCV), respectively. Chronic HBV or HCV infections can lead to liver damage and other complications. A Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test detects the presence of viral markers, including antigens and antibodies, produced by the body in response to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV infections.

People with HIV are most likely to get infected by chronic hepatitis. This co-infection causes more liver-related health problems. Hence, given the risk of co-infection, it is crucial to recognize these risks early with a Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test, take preventive measures, and, if necessary, seek medical attention.

Your doctor may suggest a Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test if you have risk factors for HIV, HBV, or HCV infections, including a weakened immunity, unsafe sexual practices, intravenous drug use, occupational exposure to blood, or potential exposure through medical procedures. Additionally, a Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test may also be done in pregnant women as a part of prenatal care as these infections can be transmitted from a mother to her unborn child.

Before getting tested, let your doctor know about all the medications you are taking, as some of them can affect the test results, and you might be asked to stop taking them. Also, a duly filled consent form is mandatory for sample collection.

A Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test utilizes automated chemiluminescence immunoassay technology for the estimation of HBsAg, anti-HCV antibodies and combined qualitative determination of p24 antigen and specific antibodies to HIV (1 & 2). The technology (CMIA/ CLIA) can vary based on different machines available in different locations.

Test results depend upon various factors such as clinical history, time of sample collection, etc. Discuss your specific test results with your doctor. Based on your test results, doctors may suggest some lifestyle adjustments, prescribe medications to manage your condition, and develop a holistic treatment plan.

What is Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) used for?

A Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test is done:

To detect the presence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV).
In individuals with symptoms like loss of appetite, joint pain, dark urine, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, mild fever, pale skin tone, etc.
To screen individuals with risk factors like weak immunity, unsafe sexual practices, intravenous drug use, occupational exposure to blood, etc.
As a part of antenatal care in pregnant women.
As a part of pre-operative screening tests.

What does Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) measure?

Contains 3 tests

A Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test includes screening of three transmissible viral infections, namely hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis C virus antibody, and HIV combo (antigen and antibody) test. These tests evaluate the presence or absence of the viruses causing hepatitis B or C and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in your blood sample.

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. This test also helps to differentiate between the two HIV infections.

Hepatitis B surface antigen test screens for the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in an individual. HBsAg is the first serological marker, within 1 to 10 weeks, to appear in the blood after recent exposure to HBV. Persistence of this marker for more than 6 months implies chronic (long-term) HBV infection, which may lead to liver damage (scarring or cirrhosis). A person who has a chronic infection is capable of spreading the infection to healthy individuals, even if they do not show or experience any symptoms.

The hepatitis C virus antibody test determines if you have been infected by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and helps your doctor guide your treatment. HCV causes liver inflammation and is classified into acute hepatitis infection and chronic hepatitis infection .This test is used for screening for anti-HCV antibodies.

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.

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.

Know more about Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Antibody

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.

Know more about Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)

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.

Know more about HIV Combo (Antigen And Antibody) Test

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV)

Frequently Asked Questions about Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV)

Q. When is a Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test done?

A Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test is a screening procedure usually done if you exhibit signs and symptoms suggestive of viral hepatitis B or C and HIV infections. It is suggested as a screening test before all elective or emergency procedures and during pregnancy. This test is also suggested for people who have higher risk factors like sharing needles, abusing intravenous drugs, and indulging in unprotected sexual activities.

Q. What are the symptoms that require a Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test?

The symptoms that require a Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test may vary from person to person depending upon the type of virus exposed. However, some of the most common signs that may need a viral marker test are flu-like symptoms (fever, headache, vomiting, abdominal pain), jaundice symptoms (like yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes), unexplained weight loss, night sweats, persistent cough rashes on the skin, etc.

Q. Are there any precautions that should be taken before or after a Triple H test?

Standard precautions for blood tests should be followed. You should also inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking as they could potentially interfere with the test results.

Q. What should I do if my Triple H test is reactive?

The Viral Marker Screening (HIV, HBsAg, Anti-HCV) test is only an initial screening test for detecting HbsAg, HCV antibodies and HIV (p24 antigen and HIV 1&2 antibodies). It is recommended that any reactive test should be rechecked with more specific tests like NAT/ nucleic acid tests (like HCV RNA, HBV DNA) to confirm an infection (CDC). As per NACO guidelines, all HIV reactive samples are tested by three different methods before the release of the report; all reactive results must be confirmed with a Western Blot Test.

Q. What is the window period?

Window period represents the period between infection with HIV (or contact with the virus) and the time when HIV antibodies can be detected in the blood. A blood test performed during the window period may yield a negative test result for HIV antibodies. These cases may require further testing after 6-12 weeks (upto 6 months in some cases).

Q. How can I prevent hepatitis B infection?

Hepatitis B can be best prevented by vaccination. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective and should be given in three doses for full protection (at 0, 1, and 6 months).

Q. How can I prevent hepatitis C infection?

There is no vaccination available for hepatitis C. However, the best way to prevent hepatitis C infection is by avoiding activities that can spread the disease, especially injecting drugs with non-sterile injection equipment, practicing unsafe sex, etc.

Q. Is an HIV infection curable?

An HIV infection is not curable, but proper treatment can be started if the infection is diagnosed at an early stage. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is used to treat the infection. This therapy helps reduce the levels of the virus in the body, which will improve health.

+ more