A viral marker test is a medical test that checks for the presence of specific viral markers in the blood. These markers are proteins or other substances produced by viruses and can be used to diagnose and monitor viral infections. Four common viral marker tests are the HIV, HBsAg, HCV, and VDRL tests. The HIV test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes AIDS. The HBsAg test detects the presence of the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), which indicates an active hepatitis B infection. The HCV test detects antibodies to the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which can cause liver damage. The VDRL test detects antibodies to the bacterium that causes syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection. These tests are important in the diagnosis and treatment of viral infections and can help prevent the spread of these diseases.
