When Do Tests Detect Hepatitis B Virus?

Often, there is a period after contracting the Hepatitis B virus and before the appearance of symptoms, or even before it is detected in tests. Symptoms typically manifest clearly in 60 - 150 days, but when will tests detect the hepatitis B virus?

When will tests detect hepatitis B virus?

Hepatitis B virus is a virus that causes inflammation in the liver, which can be acute or chronic, and it is usually transmitted through body fluids.

Many people are often unaware of their Hepatitis B virus infection due to the lack of any symptoms, and even if symptoms do appear, they may take between 60 - 150 days after virus exposure to manifest (according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average time for symptoms to appear is 90 days).

Therefore, testing remains the final option for diagnosis, but when will tests detect hepatitis B virus? To answer this question simply and clearly, it is important to note that the doctor may request several tests to check for the presence of the Hepatitis B virus and its antigens in the body.

Typically, tests can detect the virus in the body after 1 - 9 weeks of exposure, with an average detection time of about 4 weeks. However, the World Health Organization has mentioned that virus detection in tests may take a longer period, ranging from 30 - 60 days.

What are the types of Hepatitis B tests?

Now we will clarify the types of Hepatitis B tests:

• Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test

Antigens are proteins present on the virus's surface, usually found at high levels in cases of acute or chronic hepatitis. This test helps detect current and new infections. 

Typically, this test can detect the virus in the body after 1 - 9 weeks of exposure. The result of this test is negative for all individuals who recover spontaneously from the infection.

• Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (HBsAb) Test

The body naturally produces surface antibodies within a few weeks or months after infection. These tests can detect these antibodies after the disappearance of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) in individuals who can eliminate the virus and avoid chronic infection. 

The presence of these antibodies after acute infection indicates recovery (i.e., the person was previously infected), and their presence after vaccination indicates vaccine efficacy.

You can perform the test for Hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) offered by Blazma, which doesn't require any prior preparation other than informing the doctor about the medications you are taking.

• Total Hepatitis B Core Antibody (anti-HBc) Test:

Core antibodies appear when symptoms of hepatitis occur and remain detectable throughout life, serving as a marker of past Hepatitis B infection.

How is the Hepatitis B test performed?

The test is conducted on a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein by a healthcare professional using a small needle for analysis.

Does the test require any prior preparations?

The test does not require any prior procedures or preparations. However, it is essential to inform the doctor about all medications you are taking.