H3 Viral Marker Profile (HIV, HbsAg, HCV)
H3 Viral Marker Profile (HIV, HbsAg, HCV)
Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections are major public health problems across the globe that share common transmission routes and affected populations. What’s alarming is that most people infected with these viruses are unaware of them.
Lupin Diagnostics, therefore, offers the H3 Viral Marker Profile, a one-of-a-kind bundle that screens an individual for hepatitis B, C, and HIV infection simultaneously, as they singly or as coinfection can cause serious health consequences if left untreated.
The profile includes rapid tests that use qualitative immunoassay technology to identify HIV p24 antigen, antibodies associated with HIV 1 and 2, HCV-specific IgM antibodies, and monoclonal antibodies for HBsAg in blood or serum. A doctor may order an H3 viral marker profile if a person shows symptoms suggestive of hepatitis
What is an H3 Viral Marker Profile Used For?
The H3 viral marker is used
To diagnose individuals having symptoms suggestive of hepatitis ( acute and chronic)
To screen individuals who are suspected to have been exposed to either HIV, HBV, or HCV but have not been tested before
To monitor the progression of HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C infection
To keep track of the treatment progress and find out whether it is working or not
Which Tests are Included in H3 Viral Marker Profile Test?
Here are the tests included in the H3 Viral Marker Profile
HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen) test(CLIA/ELISA):
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This test determines the actual presence of the hepatitis B virus in the blood through HBsAg, a protein present on the surface of the hepatitis B virus. The presence of HBsAg indicates ongoing hepatitis B infection
HCV Antibody test(CLIA/ELISA)
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This test identify antibodies to Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the blood. A positive report usually indicates past exposure to the virus
HIV Duo Test (Antigen and Antibody Test)
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Based on immunoassay, this test detects both the antibodies against HIV-1 and HIV-2 and the presence of HIV p24 antigen to know if someone has been exposed to the virus
Test preparation
Since the test requires blood, no specific preparation is needed. However, if you are on medication or taking supplements or have any underlying medical conditions, tell your doctor about them before the test. In addition, you might need to fast before the test in some circumstances
Interpretation of the Test Results
The following are the interpretations of the H3Viral Marker Profile examination:
Positive Result
The positive report signifies active viral infection
Negative result
This report indicates that a person is not infected with either hepatitis virus or HIV
FAQs
Who should get tested with the H3 Viral Marker Profile?
Given that both viral hepatitis and HIV are bloodborne infections, individuals with the following risk factors should get tested :
- who injects drugs with a needle or syringe used by someone else
- who have had multiple sexual partners
- who participates in unprotected sex with someone positive for HIV, HBV, or HCV
- who have a history of syphilis, gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted diseases
- who are pregnant
who had received kidney dialysis
When to get tested?
Being a screening procedure, the H3 Viral Marker Profile is typically done when someone has signs and symptoms suggestive of viral hepatitis B or C and HIV infections. It is also performed before elective or emergency treatments and during pregnancy
What factors can influence the accuracy of H3 Viral Marker Profile test results?
Factors like medications, hormonal imbalance, and active viral infections such as flu, cold, and herpes can interfere with the accuracy of test results
Does the H3 Viral Marker Profile HIV, HbsAg, or HCV have a normal range?
No, there isn’t a normal range for the H3 Viral marker profile HIV, HBsAg, and HCV test because, in this test, the results are read as positive and negative
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