Skip to content

Hepatitis B Virus Core IgM Antibody

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

This biomarker measures the presence of IgM antibodies against the core antigen of the Hepatitis B virus, indicating an acute or recent HBV infection.

Quick summary

HBV Core IgM Antibody indicates acute or recent Hepatitis B infection.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
S/CO
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
qualitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Anti-HBc IgM, Abbott Anti-HBc IgM
interpretation: {"text":"< 0.9 S/CO: No acute or recent HBV infection detected.","label":"Negative"}; {"text":"> 1.1 S/CO: Indicates acute or recent HBV infection.","label":"Positive"}

The Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Core IgM Antibody test detects the presence of IgM antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the core antigen of the Hepatitis B virus. These antibodies are typically the first to appear after exposure to the virus, making them a reliable marker for diagnosing acute or recent HBV infections.

The test is particularly useful in differentiating between acute and chronic HBV infections. In acute infections, IgM antibodies are present at high levels, whereas in chronic infections, these antibodies are usually absent or present at very low levels.

A positive result, indicated by a value above the reference range (0–1 S/CO), suggests an active or recent HBV infection. This information is crucial for timely medical intervention and management of the disease.

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive HBV Core IgM Antibody test mean?
A positive result suggests an active or recent Hepatitis B infection, requiring further medical evaluation and management.
Can the test differentiate between acute and chronic HBV infections?
Yes, the presence of IgM antibodies typically indicates an acute or recent infection, while their absence suggests a chronic infection.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic: Hepatitis B TestSource
  2. 2
    CDC: Hepatitis B TestingSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy