Your Health Check Results: What Do They Mean? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Questions about the test report?


The health check conducted in each township includes a stool test.
The results for colorectal cancer screening are unclear.
The Hepatitis B surface antigen is negative, while the Hepatitis C test is positive.
Could you please help me understand whether this is normal? Thank you.

Miss Lin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/28

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology


Hello, I don't understand your question.
What tests were performed? Blood tests? Colon cancer marker tests? If the CEA level for colon cancer is 3, that is considered normal.
Which test report is showing negative/positive results? Please review the report carefully, and if you have any questions, feel free to bring the report to the outpatient clinic, and we will be happy to explain it to you.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Zhiping, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2004/10/28

More Info


Understanding your health check results can be quite daunting, especially when it comes to interpreting various laboratory values and what they mean for your overall health. In your case, you mentioned undergoing a health check that included tests for fecal matter, hepatitis B surface antigen, and hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies. Let’s break down these results and their implications.


Fecal Tests
Fecal tests are often used to screen for colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal issues. The results can indicate the presence of blood in the stool, which may suggest conditions ranging from benign polyps to more serious issues like colorectal cancer. If your fecal test results were normal, it generally indicates that there are no immediate concerns regarding your gastrointestinal health. However, if there were any abnormalities, further investigation may be warranted.


Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)
The hepatitis B surface antigen test is used to determine if you are currently infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). A negative result indicates that you are not currently infected with HBV, which is a good sign. It suggests that you either have never been infected or that you have cleared the infection if you had one in the past.

Hepatitis C Antibody Test
On the other hand, a positive result for the hepatitis C antibody test indicates that you have been exposed to the hepatitis C virus (HCV) at some point. It does not necessarily mean that you have an active infection, as some people can clear the virus on their own. To determine whether you have an active infection, further testing is required, typically a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which measures the amount of virus in your blood.


Implications of Your Results
1. Fecal Test: If your results were normal, it suggests that there are no signs of colorectal issues. If there were abnormalities, follow-up tests may be necessary.


2. Hepatitis B: A negative HBsAg is reassuring. It means you are not currently infected, which is a positive outcome. If you have risk factors for hepatitis B, such as a history of unprotected sex or sharing needles, consider discussing vaccination with your healthcare provider.

3. Hepatitis C: A positive result for HCV antibodies means you should follow up with additional testing to determine if you have an active infection. Hepatitis C can lead to chronic liver disease, so it’s important to get a definitive diagnosis. If you do have an active infection, treatment options are available that can lead to a cure.


Next Steps
- Consult Your Doctor: It’s crucial to discuss these results with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and risk factors.

- Follow-Up Testing: If you have a positive hepatitis C antibody test, ask about getting a PCR test to check for active infection.

- Lifestyle Considerations: Regardless of your results, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol, can support your liver health.


Conclusion
In summary, understanding your health check results is essential for maintaining your health. A negative hepatitis B surface antigen is a positive outcome, while a positive hepatitis C antibody test requires further investigation. Always consult with your healthcare provider for a comprehensive interpretation of your results and to discuss any necessary follow-up actions. Your health is paramount, and being proactive about understanding your test results is a significant step in managing it effectively.

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