What does a hepatitis A antigen-positive result mean?

Antigen testing looks for a component of the hepatitis A virus. A positive result may fit an active or recent infection, but the meaning depends on the exact test, when the sample was taken, and whether another marker was checked. A clinician may compare the result with liver enzymes and your examination. Hepatitis A can cause tiredness, nausea, reduced appetite, dark urine, and a generally unwell feeling; a symptom such as dark urine is not, by itself, proof of hepatitis A.

The infection can affect the liver and may spread through close contact or contaminated food and water. Until you receive advice, wash your hands carefully after using the toilet and before preparing food, and avoid sharing food or drinks.

Contact the clinician or laboratory that issued the result so the test name and interpretation can be confirmed. Ask whether you need repeat blood work, including a liver function test, and whether people in your household or other close contacts need preventive advice. Rest, drink fluids, and choose small meals if nausea or poor appetite is making eating difficult. Avoid alcohol and check before taking medicines or supplements that can affect the liver. Follow the clinician’s advice about work, food preparation, and follow-up.

Arrange prompt medical review if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, worsening vomiting, severe abdominal pain, confusion, unusual sleepiness, bleeding, or difficulty keeping fluids down. Seek urgent help for confusion, collapse, severe weakness, or signs of dehydration. Pregnant people, young children, older adults, and people with existing liver disease should seek advice early because illness may require closer monitoring.

Ask: Which hepatitis A marker was positive? Does this indicate a current infection or another explanation? Do I need a liver function test or repeat sample? How should I protect household contacts, and when can I safely return to normal activities?