Haemophilus Influenzae Type B Antigen - Urine

The test may be recommended to individuals, especially children, presenting symptoms of a urinary tract infection such as burning or pain during urination, frequent urge to urinate, fever, abdominal pain, or cloudy or strong-smelling urine.

The test requires a urine sample, typically collected using the 'clean-catch' method. In the laboratory, the sample is analyzed for the presence of Hib antigen.

No special preparation is required before this test. However, you may be advised to avoid urinating for at least an hour before the test to ensure an adequate sample.

A positive result indicates the presence of Hib antigen in the urine, suggesting a urinary tract infection due to Haemophilus influenzae type b. A negative result means no Hib antigen was detected, and it's unlikely that the person has a Hib urinary tract infection.

Contamination of the urine sample with bacteria from the skin or genital area can lead to inaccurate results. Therefore, it is essential to follow the 'clean-catch' method when collecting the urine sample.

If your test results are abnormal, it is advisable to consult a urologist or an infectious disease specialist.

Although the urine sample can be collected at home, the analysis requires specialized laboratory equipment and should be done by trained technicians.

Early detection and treatment of Hib infections can prevent severe complications. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms indicative of a urinary tract infection, seek medical attention promptly. While this test can provide valuable information, the results should always be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional considering the patient's overall health status and clinical symptoms. The test forms part of a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b.