Hepatitis E Virus Antibody, Serum — Qualitative
A qualitative blood test that checks for antibodies to hepatitis E virus and can help identify a recent or past infection.
["A positive result suggests that your immune system has encountered hepatitis E virus, but timing and other tests may be needed to determine when infection occurred."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 20791-0
- Short code
- EEEV Ab Ser Ql IF
- Synonyms
- EEEV Ab Ser Ql IF
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This blood test looks for antibodies your immune system produces in response to hepatitis E virus. It is reported as positive or negative rather than as a measured concentration.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be ordered if you have symptoms of acute hepatitis, such as fatigue, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. It may also be considered after possible exposure to hepatitis E or when evaluating unexplained liver inflammation.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the serum is tested for hepatitis E antibodies using a qualitative laboratory assay. Your healthcare professional can explain which antibody type was tested and how it should be interpreted with your symptoms and medical history.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required for a routine blood draw. Tell your clinician if you have recently traveled to an area where hepatitis E is common or have had possible exposure to the virus.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result indicates that hepatitis E antibodies are present and generally suggests current or previous exposure to the virus. Antibodies can remain detectable after an infection has resolved, so a positive result alone does not always mean you currently have an active infection. Results should be interpreted with symptoms, risk factors, and other hepatitis tests by your clinician.
Short name
Hepatitis E antibody
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive hepatitis E antibody test mean?
Can I have hepatitis E without having any symptoms?
Do I need to do anything special before this blood test?
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