Infectious Disease• Updated 21 October 2026
Hepatitis A Test
A blood test for antibodies to the hepatitis A virus.
Results: A few days Specimen: Blood
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To diagnose acute hepatitis A in people with jaundice, or check immunity.
What It Measures
Anti-HAV IgM (recent) and IgG (immunity).
Preparation
No preparation.
Overview
IgM shows recent infection.
IgG shows past infection or vaccination.
What It Measures
Anti-HAV IgM
Current infection.
Anti-HAV IgG
Immunity.
How It's Performed
- 01
Blood sample
From a vein.
- 02
Lab
Antibody testing.
- 03
Result
Guides care.
Interpreting Results & Next Steps
Discuss with Doctor
Your doctor will explain what your result means and what happens next.
If values are High:
Positive IgM confirms acute hepatitis A.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Hepatitis Testing(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine