HbsAg (card)

The HBsAg (card) test is a qualitative immunoassay – a type of diagnostic test designed for the rapid detection of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in a blood sample. HBsAg is a protein found on the surface of the Hepatitis B virus. Its presence in your blood indicates an active HBV infection, which can be either acute (newly acquired) or chronic (long-lasting).

This test is incredibly important for several reasons:

1. Early Detection
2. Prevention of Transmission
3. Screening Tool

At Cadabam’s Diagnostics, we utilize reliable HBsAg (card) test kits as part of our comprehensive diagnostic services to provide quick initial insights into potential HBV infections.

The HBsAg (card) test specifically measures the presence or absence of the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in your bloodstream.

It’s important to understand what this test doesn't measure:

• Antibodies (like Anti-HBs or Anti-HBc)
• Viral load (HBV DNA)

The HBsAg (card) test provides a simple "yes" or "no" answer regarding the presence of this specific viral protein at the time of testing.

The HBsAg (card) test is commonly performed in:

• Routine checkups
• Prenatal screening
• Blood and organ donation
• Occupational health
• Suspected hepatitis symptoms
• Post-exposure cases
• High-risk group screening
• Pre-vaccination
• Before immunosuppressive therapies

Risks are minimal and related to the blood draw:

• Finger prick: Minimal discomfort
• Venipuncture: Slight pain, bruising, rare fainting

Limitations:

• Window period may cause false negatives
• Rare false positives
• Confirmation with ELISA or CLIA is required
• Doesn’t determine infection stage
• Doesn’t indicate immunity

The HBsAg (card) test evaluates:

• Presence or absence of HBsAg

Results:

• Non-Reactive (Negative)
• Reactive (Positive)
• Invalid

Consider testing if you:

• Show hepatitis symptoms
• Were born in high-HBV-prevalence regions
• Are unvaccinated with risk factors (e.g. IV drug use, multiple partners)
• Are pregnant
• Need immunosuppressive therapy
• Have unexplained liver disease
• Are a blood/organ donor
• Are in correctional facilities

• Quick results (15–30 min)
• Early detection of HBV
• Helps prevent transmission
• Guides further medical care
• Peace of mind in many cases
• Suitable for low-resource or outreach settings

• Acute Hepatitis B
• Chronic Hepatitis B

Note: This is a screening tool—confirmatory testing and full evaluation are required for diagnosis.

• No fasting required
• Provide relevant medical history
• Suitable for all age groups

Procedure:

• Finger prick or venous blood draw
• Blood applied to the test card
• Buffer added
• Wait for 15–30 mins
• Results read by trained personnel

Caution: Inform the phlebotomist about any bleeding disorders or medications