Quick answer
The Hepatitis E IgM Test costs ₹750 at Live Line Health Care. Detects IgM antibodies to the hepatitis E virus. No fasting is needed. It uses a blood sample and the report is usually ready within 24 hours. Book home sample collection or visit any of our 45 centres.
Also known as: HEV IgM, Anti-HEV IgM, Hepatitis E Antibody IgM, Acute Hepatitis E Test, Jaundice Test Hepatitis E, HEV IgM Antibody
What is the Hepatitis E IgM Test?
The Hepatitis E IgM test checks for early antibodies against the hepatitis E virus, one of the most common causes of sudden jaundice in adults in India. Hepatitis E spreads mainly through drinking water contaminated with sewage, so cases tend to cluster during the monsoon and after flooding or pipeline leaks, sometimes as large outbreaks. IgM antibodies appear early in the illness and usually last a few months, so a reactive result in someone with jaundice points to a recent infection.
Most people recover from hepatitis E within weeks without lasting liver damage. The main exception is pregnancy, especially the last three months, when hepatitis E can cause acute liver failure and is dangerous for both mother and baby. That is why any pregnant woman with jaundice needs urgent medical review. Antibody tests are not perfect, and a borderline or unexpected result may be confirmed with a test for the virus’s genetic material (HEV RNA). This IgM test is for a current illness, while the Hepatitis E Total Antibody test shows exposure at any time in the past.
What it measures: IgM antibodies to the hepatitis E virus, a marker of recent infection.
Parameters included (1)
- Anti-HEV IgM Antibody
Why is this test done?
- Jaundice in an adult, especially during the monsoon or an outbreak
- Jaundice or raised liver enzymes in pregnancy
- Acute hepatitis where hepatitis A IgM is non-reactive
- Several people in one area or building falling ill with jaundice
- Sudden worsening of jaundice in a person with existing liver disease
When should you get tested?
- Yellowing of the eyes and skin
- Dark urine with clay-coloured stools
- Nausea and dislike of food
- Mild fever and body ache in the days before jaundice
- Itching of the skin
How to prepare for the Hepatitis E IgM Test
- 1No fasting is needed before the sample.
- 2If you are pregnant, tell the staff and see your obstetrician the same day. Do not wait for the report before seeking care.
- 3Bring your latest liver function test, if you have one.
- 4Note when the symptoms started and whether others nearby have similar illness.
Hepatitis E IgM Test normal range
| Parameter | Typical reference range |
|---|---|
| Expected result | Non-reactive: hepatitis E IgM not detected |
| Reactive | Hepatitis E IgM detected, suggesting a recent infection |
| Equivocal or borderline | Unclear result. A repeat sample or HEV RNA may be advised |
Antibody tests can occasionally react falsely, so the result is read alongside symptoms and liver tests. 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 jaundice usually confirms acute hepatitis E. Most people recover with rest, fluids and monitoring of liver function.
- In pregnancy, a reactive result needs close specialist care and often hospital monitoring.
- A non-reactive result early in illness does not fully exclude hepatitis E. Your doctor may also check hepatitis A, hepatitis B and other causes.
- Boil or purify drinking water and wash hands with soap, so that others in the household are protected.
- Seek emergency care for confusion, drowsiness, bleeding, swelling of the belly or legs, repeated vomiting or very little urine, as these can be signs of liver failure.
Hepatitis E IgM Test – FAQs
What is the price of the Hepatitis E IgM Test?
The Hepatitis E IgM Test costs ₹750 at Live Line Health Care, at all 45 centres and for home sample collection.
What does hepatitis E IgM positive mean?
It means antibodies made early in hepatitis E infection were found, which suggests a recent infection. In someone with jaundice, this usually explains the illness. Most people get better on their own, but your doctor will monitor liver tests until they return to normal.
Why is hepatitis E dangerous in pregnancy?
In pregnancy, particularly the third trimester, hepatitis E can lead to acute liver failure, bleeding and loss of the baby. A pregnant woman with jaundice should be seen by a doctor the same day and may need hospital care, even before results are available.
How does hepatitis E spread?
Mostly through drinking water or ice contaminated with sewage. That is why outbreaks often follow heavy rain, flooding or broken water pipes. Boiling or filtering water, eating freshly cooked food and handwashing are the best ways to avoid it.
Should hepatitis A and hepatitis E be tested together?
Often, yes. Both spread through contaminated food or water and cause similar jaundice, so symptoms alone cannot tell them apart. Doctors frequently order both IgM tests at the same time to find the cause quickly.
Does hepatitis E become a long-term infection?
In healthy people it almost always clears within weeks to a few months. Long-lasting infection is rare and is mainly seen in people with very weak immunity, such as organ transplant recipients. Your doctor will advise if follow-up testing is needed.
Where can I get the Hepatitis E 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.