Anti-Hepatitis A Virus Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibody, Serum
This test measures the presence of antibodies against the hepatitis A virus (HAV) in your blood. These antibodies indicate whether your immune system has been exposed to the virus in the past.
["Past exposure to hepatitis A may be detected through antibody testing."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43837-4
- Short code
- FLUAV IgG Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- FLUAV IgG Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 This Test Measures
The test detects IgG antibodies specific to hepatitis A virus (HAV). IgG antibodies develop after an initial infection and can persist for years, providing long-term immunity. This test helps determine if you’ve had hepatitis A in the past, even if you didn’t experience symptoms or recover fully.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test to check for past exposure to hepatitis A, especially in people at higher risk (e.g., travelers to regions with high HAV transmission, certain occupational groups, or individuals with liver disease). It can also be used for screening before certain procedures or vaccinations.
How It Works
A blood sample is taken, and the serum is analyzed using an immunoassay method to detect IgG antibodies against HAV. This method identifies the presence of these antibodies without measuring the virus itself.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know—they can help make the process more comfortable.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results (detecting IgG antibodies) suggest past infection with hepatitis A, meaning your body has built immunity. Negative results mean you likely haven’t been exposed or have very low immunity. This test is not used to diagnose current infection but can help assess vaccination status or exposure history.
Short name
Anti-HAV IgG
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I currently have hepatitis A?
Can I get vaccinated after knowing my antibody status?
How long do these antibodies last?
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