Mandatory minimum
The panel protects both the patient and the staff, and at the same time serves as a reasonable personal screening: many first find out the status just before a planned operation - at the stage when everything is decided. The package is cheaper than four separate tests; result to the preoperative appointment. Positive screenings are always cross-checked with confirmatory methods before any conclusions are drawn.
When is it appointed?
- mandatory block before operations and hospitalization;
- screening after high-risk exposures and procedures;
- elevated ALT/AST – exclusion of viral hepatitis;
- observation and treatment of chronic hepatitis (PCR);
- pregnancy, donation, medical examinations.
Bloodborne infections: test logic
Screening is built in stages: antigens and antibodies (HBsAg, anti-HCV, HIV, RW) detect the fact of infection; PCR tests (HBV DNA, HCV RNA) confirm active replication and measure viral load - the basis of treatment decisions; clarifying markers (HBcore, HBe, delta) detail the phase of hepatitis B. Today hepatitis C can be cured in 8–12 weeks with tablets, B is controlled: early diagnosis literally changes fate. All results are confidential.