Antibody Screening for Antibodies to Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (IgG)
This test checks for antibodies to the hepatitis B virus surface antigen, which can indicate past or current exposure to hepatitis B. It helps determine if you’ve been vaccinated, naturally infected, or if the virus is still active.
["This screening helps assess immunity and infection status from hepatitis B exposure."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 85782-1
- Short code
- CGLDNA
- Synonyms
- C glabrata DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Positive blood culture bottle (aerobic or anaerobic) submitted for testing; transfer to sterile molecular testing container may be required
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 122451000146107
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL aliquot from positive blood culture bottle or per laboratory-specific protocol
- Stability
- Blood culture bottles: stable per blood culture system specifications (typically up to 5 days). Once removed from bottle, process immediately or refrigerate at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours. For prolonged delays, freeze at -70°C or below.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 2–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Antibodies to the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAb) can appear after vaccination or infection. This test helps doctors track immunity, diagnose past infections, or confirm vaccination success.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may have a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor if you’re pregnant, have bleeding issues, or take blood thinners.
What the Results Mean
Positive results suggest immunity (either from vaccination or prior infection). Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, which may require further testing or booster evaluation.
Common Reasons for Testing
Doctors may order this test for newborns to check for maternal infection, before vaccination, during travel to high-risk areas, or if you’ve had unprotected sex with someone infected.
Reference range
Negative for Candida glabrata DNA. A positive result indicates the presence of Candida glabrata DNA in the positive blood culture.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen is collected from a positive blood culture bottle, not directly from the patient.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for preventing hepatitis B spread. It helps identify high-risk individuals, guides vaccination decisions, and supports monitoring of chronic infection. Early detection allows for timely treatment and prevention of liver damage.
Short name
Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Screen (IgG)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Do I need to fast before this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy