Which test is used to assess chronic liver infection from HAV, HBV, and HCV?

The Hep Panel Chronic test is specifically designed to assess ongoing or chronic infections related to hepatitis viruses, particularly hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV). This panel typically includes markers that indicate whether a person is currently living with a chronic form of these infections.

Chronic liver infections often develop after an acute infection if the body is unable to clear the virus effectively. In adults, HBV can lead to chronic infection in about 5-10% of cases, while HCV has a higher rate of chronicity, affecting about 70-80% of individuals infected. The Hep Panel Chronic thus plays a crucial role in identifying individuals who may require further medical management or treatment for their liver health.

Understanding the specific features of the other options helps clarify the focus of the Hep Panel Chronic. The Hep Panel Acute tests for recent infections and primarily assesses markers indicating acute hepatitis conditions, not chronicity. Meanwhile, Hep A AB Total measures immunity to hepatitis A or past exposure but doesn't evaluate chronic infections. Lastly, Hep B Core AB IGM indicates an acute infection phase of hepatitis B rather than a chronic state, focusing on the body's immediate immune response. Therefore, the Hep Panel Chronic is clearly the most appropriate choice for assessing long-term liver infection statuses