The hepatitis B virus screen tests for possible infection in the mother. While there is no cure for hepatitis B, the infection can be controlled with a vaccine.
If a mother is infected with hepatitis B there is a chance that the baby may become infected with about a quarter of cases developing into chronic carriers and risking cirrhosis or cancer of the liver.
The test is performed on a blood sample obtained during a prenatal visit. The blood is analyzed for the presence of antibodies to the hepatitis B virus. If antibodiesA protein immunoglobulin which is produced naturally by the body and is essential to the immune system by working to combat foreign bodies, germs or bacteria. They are produced by thelymphoid tissue and consist of different classes each of which is designed to fight specific antigens. They include agglutinins, bacteriolysins, opsonins and preciptin.
Visit our comprehensive glossary for more pregnancy terms and definitions. are found the infection is present in the bloodstream.
The test is recommended for all mothers to ensure that the infection is not passed onto the baby during delivery. It routinely forms part of the panel of tests that are administered during the first prenatal visit.
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There are few, if any, risks associated with this test.
The test is performed during the first or second prenatal office visit.
Results of the blood test will indicate whether you are infected with the hepatitis B virus.
If the hepatitis B virus screen shows that you are infected with the virus your doctor will notify your pediatrician. Immediately after delivery your baby will be bathed to remove all traces of maternal blood and then be administered with the first of three immune globulin injections. The second and third injections are given one month and six months after the initial vaccination, which will be performed by your pediatrician. Hepatitis B vaccine is now recommended for all newborns.
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