Skip to content

Fluorescent Immunoassay for Antibodies to Hepatitis A Virus Nucleocapsid Protein

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to the hepatitis A virus. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus or if your body has already built immunity.

Quick summary

["This test can help confirm past or recent hepatitis A infection and assess immunity status."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6639-9
Short code
FLUAV Bang Ab Ser HAI-aCnc
Synonyms
FLUAV Bang Ab Ser HAI-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
hai
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of hepatitis A, such as fever, fatigue, nausea, or jaundice, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with hepatitis A. It may also be used to check if you’re immune after vaccination or to monitor chronic liver health.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding issues, let your provider know.

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results indicate recent or past infection with the hepatitis A virus, meaning your body has detected and responded to the virus. Negative results suggest no current infection or immunity. High antibody levels may mean you’ve recovered from hepatitis A or were vaccinated.

Common Symptoms of Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A often causes flu-like symptoms, including fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and dark urine. Some people may also experience joint pain or a skin rash. These symptoms usually appear 2 to 3 weeks after infection and can last for weeks or months.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for diagnosing hepatitis A, which can cause liver inflammation and damage. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and management to ease symptoms and prevent complications. It’s also important for public health to identify outbreaks and prevent further spread.

Short name

Hepatitis A Antibody (Nucleocapsid) Fluorescence Test

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they have the results.
Can I get hepatitis A if I have positive antibodies?
Positive antibodies to the hepatitis A nucleocapsid protein usually mean you’ve already had the virus and recovered. However, if you’re vaccinated and test positive, it may indicate a rare reaction or a different type of immune response. Always discuss results with your doctor.
Is this test different from the hepatitis A vaccine?
Yes. This test detects antibodies produced after infection, while the hepatitis A vaccine stimulates your immune system to create protective antibodies before exposure. Vaccination is the best way to prevent hepatitis A.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 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.

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy