Blood Tests & Screening
About this service
A hepatitis screening test is a point-of-care blood test done in our rooms at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek to check for exposure to hepatitis, looking for a relevant antigen or antibody in your blood. Hepatitis can affect the liver and sometimes causes few or no early symptoms, which is why testing is often recommended for screening purposes, before certain procedures, or when investigating symptoms such as fatigue or jaundice.
The test uses a small blood sample and gives your doctor helpful information to guide further care. Your doctor will explain your result and any recommended next steps in the same visit.
What to expect
- Your doctor asks about symptoms, exposure risk and any vaccination history first
- A small blood sample is tested on a point-of-care kit for a hepatitis antigen or antibody
- The screening result is available while you are still in our rooms
- A reactive result is sent for confirmation and liver function tests at the laboratory
- Vaccination against hepatitis B may be offered if you are not immune
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Unexplained fatigue or nausea
- Known exposure risk or a request for screening
- Pre-procedure screening as advised by your doctor
- Monitoring a known hepatitis-related concern
Frequently asked questions
Which types of hepatitis does the screening test check for?
The point-of-care kit checks for a specific hepatitis antigen or antibody, most often hepatitis B. Your doctor will choose the marker that fits your situation and explain what it does and does not show.
Do I need a hepatitis test before surgery or a new job?
Some employers, insurers and pre-operative assessments ask for hepatitis B screening. Let your doctor know why you need it so the right marker is tested and documented.
What if my hepatitis screening is positive?
A reactive result is confirmed with laboratory testing and liver function tests. Your doctor will discuss what the result means and may refer you to a specialist for further care.
Ready to book your hepatitis screening test?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.