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Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) antibody, total (serum/plasma)

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

This test measures the presence of antibodies to the hepatitis B virus in your blood. Antibodies are your body’s natural defense against infections, including hepatitis B.

Quick summary

["Helps detect past or current hepatitis B infection and immunity status."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
46767-0
Short code
Hb S/bTh DBS-Imp
Synonyms
Hb S/bTh DBS-Imp
Category
hematology
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 looks for total antibodies against the hepatitis B virus, which can appear after infection or vaccination. These antibodies help your immune system fight or remember the virus.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to check for immunity after vaccination, screen for hepatitis B infection, or monitor chronic hepatitis B in people who have been previously infected.

How It’s Performed

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is tested using an immunoassay method to detect hepatitis B antibodies.

What to Expect

You may feel slight discomfort when the needle is inserted, but the procedure usually takes only a few minutes. No special preparation is needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for identifying immunity to hepatitis B, which is essential for preventing the virus from spreading. It can also help diagnose past or ongoing infection, guiding treatment decisions and preventing complications like liver damage.

Short name

Hepatitis B Antibody Total

Frequently asked questions

Why did my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may have recommended it to check if you’re immune to hepatitis B after vaccination, screen for infection, or monitor chronic hepatitis B. They’ll discuss the reason with you before ordering it.
What do my results mean?
Positive results indicate the presence of hepatitis B antibodies, suggesting past infection or vaccination. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies at this time. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Can I get this test at home?
Most blood tests, including this one, are performed in a clinical lab. Home test kits for hepatitis B antibodies are available but are typically used for screening and require confirmation through lab testing.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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