Hepatitis A (IgM)
The Hepatitis A (IgM) blood test detects IgM antibodies to the hepatitis A virus. It is used to confirm a recent or active hepatitis A infection, particularly in people with acute liver symptoms.
Turnaround time
1 day
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Hepatitis A (IgM)
What is the Hepatitis A (IgM) Blood Test?
The Hepatitis A (IgM) blood test measures IgM antibodies produced by the immune system in response to infection with the hepatitis A virus (HAV). IgM antibodies appear early in infection and indicate a recent or current exposure.
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and is usually transmitted through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Unlike hepatitis B or C, hepatitis A does not cause chronic infection, but it can cause significant short-term illness.
Testing for Hepatitis A (IgM) is the most reliable way to confirm an acute hepatitis A infection.
Why do I need a Hepatitis A (IgM) Blood Test?
This test is recommended when symptoms or blood test abnormalities suggest acute viral hepatitis. Early diagnosis is important for appropriate care, infection control and public health measures.
You may benefit from this test if you have:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Dark urine or pale stools
- Fatigue or flu-like symptoms
- Nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right side
- Fever
- Recently travelled to areas with higher hepatitis A risk
- Been exposed to contaminated food or water
- Close contact with someone diagnosed with hepatitis A
- Sudden unexplained abnormal liver blood tests
Confirming hepatitis A helps rule out other causes of acute liver inflammation.
Benefits of the Hepatitis A (IgM) Blood Test
- Confirms acute hepatitis A infection
IgM antibodies indicate recent or current infection. - Distinguishes acute from past exposure
IgM differs from IgG antibodies linked to past infection or vaccination. - Supports rapid diagnosis
Essential when acute liver symptoms are present. - Guides infection control measures
Helps reduce transmission to others. - Rules out other causes of hepatitis
Useful alongside other viral hepatitis tests. - Simple blood test
Quick and minimally invasive. - Supports public health reporting
Hepatitis A is a notifiable infection in the UK. - Reassures once resolved
Confirms infection stage and recovery timeline.
Step-by-Step – How the Test is Performed
- Book your blood test appointment online
- Attend your chosen UK clinic
- A healthcare professional collects a blood sample
- The procedure takes only a few minutes
- Results are reviewed once available
Optional home blood collection may be available in selected areas.
Your Hepatitis A (IgM) Results Explained
Negative Result
What this means:
- No IgM antibodies detected
What it suggests:
No evidence of a current or recent hepatitis A infection.
Positive Result
What this means:
- IgM antibodies detected
What it suggests:
A recent or active hepatitis A infection. Further clinical assessment and supportive management may be required.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.