Quick answer
The Hepatitis A IgM Test costs ₹700 at Live Line Health Care. Detects IgM antibodies to the hepatitis A virus, confirming a current or very recent hepatitis A infection in someone with jaundice. No fasting is needed. It uses a blood sample and the report is usually ready within 24 hours.
Also known as: HAV IgM, Anti-HAV IgM, Hepatitis A Antibody IgM, Jaundice Test Hepatitis A, Acute Hepatitis A Test, HAV IgM Antibody
What is the Hepatitis A IgM Test?
The Hepatitis A IgM test detects IgM antibodies made by the body in the early weeks after infection with the hepatitis A virus. These antibodies are usually present by the time symptoms such as jaundice begin and generally remain for about 3 to 6 months. A reactive result in someone who is unwell therefore confirms a current or recent hepatitis A infection. This is the test doctors order when a child or adult develops yellow eyes, dark urine and loss of appetite and the cause is not yet known.
Hepatitis A spreads through food or water contaminated by an infected person’s stool. It is very common in India, especially in children, who often have mild illness. Adults tend to have more marked jaundice and tiredness. The illness does not become chronic, and most people recover fully over several weeks with rest and good fluids. This test is different from the Hepatitis A Total Antibody test, which also picks up long-lasting IgG antibodies and is used to check immunity rather than a current illness. Doctors often test for hepatitis E at the same time, as the two look alike.
What it measures: IgM antibodies to the hepatitis A virus, a marker of current or recent infection.
Parameters included (1)
- Anti-HAV IgM Antibody
Why is this test done?
- Jaundice or raised liver enzymes with a suspected viral cause
- Fever, nausea and loss of appetite followed by yellow eyes
- Jaundice in a child, especially during an outbreak at school or in the neighbourhood
- A family member with recent hepatitis A
- Checking a food handler with jaundice, when advised
When should you get tested?
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Dark yellow or tea-coloured urine and pale stools
- Loss of appetite with nausea or vomiting
- Fever and tiredness a few days before jaundice
- Pain or tenderness under the right ribs
How to prepare for the Hepatitis A IgM Test
- 1This test needs no fasting.
- 2Note when the fever, nausea or jaundice began.
- 3Bring any recent liver function test or bilirubin report.
- 4Tell the staff about any hepatitis A vaccine you have had, as recent vaccination can occasionally give a reactive IgM.
Hepatitis A IgM Test normal range
| Parameter | Typical reference range |
|---|---|
| Expected result | Non-reactive: no hepatitis A IgM detected |
| Reactive | Hepatitis A IgM detected, indicating a current or recent infection |
Results are Reactive or Non-reactive, sometimes with an index and the kit’s cut-off printed alongside. Ranges are typical adult values and vary between labs, age and sex. Always use the range printed on your report and discuss results with your doctor.
Understanding your results
- A reactive result with symptoms confirms acute hepatitis A. Most people recover with rest, fluids and a normal balanced diet over several weeks.
- A non-reactive result makes hepatitis A unlikely as the cause of current jaundice. Your doctor may check hepatitis E, hepatitis B and other causes.
- Avoid alcohol and do not take paracetamol, herbal or other remedies without asking your doctor, as the liver is vulnerable during hepatitis.
- Careful handwashing after using the toilet and before handling food helps protect your family. Close contacts can ask a doctor about the vaccine.
- Go to a hospital for confusion, unusual sleepiness, bleeding, repeated vomiting or rapidly deepening jaundice, as these can be signs of liver failure.
Hepatitis A IgM Test – FAQs
What is the price of the Hepatitis A IgM Test?
The Hepatitis A IgM Test costs ₹700 at Live Line Health Care, at all 45 centres and for home sample collection.
What does hepatitis A IgM positive mean?
It means you currently have, or very recently had, hepatitis A infection. In someone with jaundice, it usually explains the illness. Most people recover completely without specific medicine, but your doctor will monitor your liver tests until they settle.
What is the difference between hepatitis A IgM and hepatitis A total antibody?
IgM appears early and fades within months, so it shows a current or recent infection. Total antibody also includes IgG, which lasts for life after infection or vaccination, so it shows immunity. For jaundice, doctors order IgM.
How long does hepatitis A IgM stay positive?
It usually becomes detectable around the time symptoms begin and stays positive for about 3 to 6 months, occasionally longer. That is why a reactive IgM generally points to a recent illness and not one from years ago.
Is hepatitis A serious?
In most children and many adults it is mild to moderate and clears fully. It never becomes a long-term infection. Older adults and people with existing liver disease can become more seriously ill, and liver failure, though rare, can occur.
How can my family avoid catching hepatitis A from me?
Wash hands well with soap after using the toilet and before handling food. Avoid preparing meals for others while you are unwell, and do not share towels or utensils. Ask a doctor whether vaccination is suitable for family members.
Where can I get the Hepatitis A IgM Test done?
At any of our 45 Live Line Health Care centres in 40 cities across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, including Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Warangal, Kakinada and Nellore, or book home sample collection.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor to interpret your results and before starting or changing any treatment.