Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is endemic throughout the world, occurring most commonly, however, in areas of poor hygiene and low socioeconomic conditions. The virus is transmitted primarily by the fecal-oral route, and it is spread by close person-to-person contact and by food- and water-borne epidemics.
Anti-HAV IgM is useful for the serological diagnosis of acute-phase Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection.
A REACTIVE anti-HAV IgM is suggestive of recent acute hepatitis A virus infection. To confirm seroconversion and infection status a follow-up specimen should be obtained for anti-HAV IgM and anti-HAV IgG.
