HAVIgM

Test NameTest ID: 

705068

CPT code:

86709

Synonyms:

Anti-HAV, IgM
Antibody to Hepatitis A Virus, IgM
HAVAb, IgM

Clinical Use:

Differential diagnosis of hepatitis; the presence of IgM antibody to hepatitis A virus is good evidence for acute hepatitis A

Test Information:

Hepatitis A virus is a picornavirus, and antibody is made to capsid proteins. Fecal excretion of HAV peaks before symptoms develop. If hepatitis A antibody is IgM, the hepatitis A infection is probably acute. IgM antibody develops within a week of symptom onset, peaks in three months, and is usually gone after six months. Hepatitis A antibody of IgG type is indicative of old infection, is found in almost 50% of adults, and is not usually clinically relevant. Many cases of hepatitis A are subclinical, particularly in children. Presence of IgG antibody to HAV does not exclude acute hepatitis B or other forms of hepatitis.

Specimen Type:

Serum or plasma

Requested Volume: 

1 mL

Minimum Volume: 

0.4 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.)

Container Type: 

Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or lavender-top (EDTA) tube

Collection:

If tube other than a gel-barrier tube is used, transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube.

Storage Instructions:

Room temperature

Stability Requirements:

Rejection Criteria

Non-EDTA plasma specimen; PST gel-barrier tube