Hepatitis E IgM antibody (anti-HEV IgM)

What it measures

Detects IgM against hepatitis E virus, a waterborne cause of acute hepatitis common in South Asia. It is ordered for acute hepatitis, especially in pregnancy.

Specimen and preparation

• Specimen: Serum or plasma
• Tube: Gold top

Reference range

Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.

Causes of high values

• Acute hepatitis E
• Chronic HEV in immunosuppressed patients (confirm with HEV RNA)
• Waterborne outbreaks in endemic regions
• Occasional cross-reaction or false positive (confirm with RNA)

Method

ELISA or CLIA; rapid cards

Good to know

HEV in the third trimester can cause fulminant liver failure; monitor INR and bilirubin closely.

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