Test Directory

This assay is used to detect total antibodies (IgG and IgM) against Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) and may be helpful when assessing HAV immunity. The detection of total antibodies cannot differentiate between vaccination, previously resolved infection, or active infection. If active hepatitis A infection is suspected, HAV IgM testing should be performed. Hepatitis A is a vaccine-preventable disease of the liver caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAV is transmitted via the fecal-oral route, usually from direct person-to-person contact or consumption of contaminated food or water. Hepatitis A is an acute, self-limited disease that does not result in chronic infection. HAV IgG antibodies produced in response to vaccination and/or HAV infection persist for life and protect against reinfection.

Specimen Types: Serum or Plasma

Collection Containers:

• Gold Top, Serum Separator
• Red Top, Separator

Minimum Acceptable Volume: 1.2 mL

Separator tubes: Contains clot activator and gel for separating serum from cells, but not anticoagulant. Separate serum from cells as soon as the clot has formed (30 minutes). If specimen is centrifuged before clotting is complete, a fibrin clot will form on top of the cell. This may cause the gel barrier to not be intact and could cause improper separation of serum and cells, possibly affecting test results.

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated.

HNL Lab Medicine Special Chemistry Reference Intervals