Lab test
Hepatitis A Antibody Test - IgM Blood Test
A hepatitis A antibody IgM test checks the blood for IgM antibodies against the hepatitis A virus.
- Typical price
- From $24
- Results
- 1-3 business days
- Preparation
- See preparation notes below
- Sample
- Blood draw or sample collection at a local center
About this test
A hepatitis A antibody IgM test checks the blood for IgM antibodies against the hepatitis A virus. IgM antibodies typically appear early after infection, so this test is used as a marker of acute hepatitis A. It is often ordered when a person has symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, abdominal discomfort, or jaundice, or after a known or suspected exposure. The test uses a blood sample. Results are interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of symptoms, exposure history, and other liver tests.
What this test measures
- Hepatitis A virus IgM antibody Antibodies that typically appear early after infection and serve as a marker of acute hepatitis A.
Who this test may be right for
- People with symptoms suggesting acute hepatitis, such as jaundice or abdominal discomfort
- Individuals with a known or suspected exposure to hepatitis A
- People who have consumed food or water linked to a hepatitis A concern
- Those with abnormal liver-related blood test results
- Individuals whose healthcare provider is evaluating acute liver inflammation
Before your visit
- No fasting is required for this blood test
- A standard blood draw is used to collect the sample
- Tell the lab about symptoms, possible exposures, and medications
- Follow any additional instructions supplied with your test order
Understanding your results
A positive hepatitis A IgM result may indicate a current or recent acute infection, while a negative result suggests that IgM antibodies were not detected at the time of testing. Because IgM can take time to appear and then fades, the timing of the sample matters. The result is interpreted alongside symptoms and liver function tests. Discuss your hepatitis A IgM result with a healthcare provider, who can explain what it means and whether further testing is needed.
Order this test online
- Buy online in a few minutes - no doctor's visit needed for most tests.
- Sample collection at a patient service center near you.
- Results are typically ready within 1-3 business days.
- Secure, lab-reviewed results delivered to your account.
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Questions people ask
Why is hepatitis A IgM used to detect acute infection?
IgM antibodies against hepatitis A typically appear early after infection, so the hepatitis A IgM test is used as a marker of a current or recent acute infection.
Can the hepatitis A IgM test be negative early after exposure?
Yes. IgM antibodies take time to develop, so a sample collected very soon after exposure may be negative and repeat testing may be advised.
Is fasting required for the hepatitis A IgM test?
No. The hepatitis A antibody IgM test is a blood draw and does not require fasting.
What does the Hepatitis A Antibody Test - IgM Blood Test measure?
This blood test is used to detect the presence of IgM antibodies for the hepatitis A virus, a good indicator of acute hepatitis A.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Follow the lab's instructions.
How long do results take?
Most Hepatitis A Antibody Test - IgM Blood Test results are released in 1-3 business days. Specialty testing can take longer.
Is this test right for me?
This page is educational and not medical advice. Talk to a licensed healthcare provider about which tests fit your situation.
LabBookings is an independent directory. We compare test details and pricing information, but we are not a laboratory and we do not perform testing or provide medical advice. Always talk to a licensed healthcare provider about your results and treatment.
Laboratory services are provided by independent, CLIA-certified testing partners. Availability, pricing, and turnaround times can vary by location and are confirmed at checkout.