Hepatitis b surface antigen test

HEPATITIS B SURFACE ANTIGEN TEST

DESCRIPTION – this test looks for hepatitis B surface antigens in your blood. The test is use to find out whether you have a recent or long standing infection from the hepatitis B virus. HBV has protein called antigens on its surface that cause your immune system to make antibodies.

METHODOLOGY – quantitative chemiluminiscent immunoassay

TURN AROUND TIME – within 24 hours

SPECIMEN REQUIERED –

PATIENT PREPARATION – refer to individual components

COLLECT – serum separator tube

SPECIMEN PREPARATION – separate serum from cells within 2 hours of collection. Transfer 1 ml of serum to transport tube

STORAGE/TRANSPORT TEMPERATURE – refrigerated

STABILITY – refrigerated: 7 days; frozen: 30 days

UNACCEPTABLE CONDITION – heparinized specimens, heat-inactivated or grossly hemolyzed specimens

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS – clinical history is mandatory