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Anti-Hepatitis B Core Antibody (Qualitative) - Serum/Plasma

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

This test detects antibodies to the hepatitis B core antigen in your blood. It helps determine if your immune system has ever been exposed to hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Quick summary

["This test helps assess past or current hepatitis B infection status."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95145-9
Short code
HBV core Ab Pnl SerPl
Synonyms
HBV core Ab Pnl SerPl
Category
chemistry
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 antibodies produced by your immune system in response to the hepatitis B core antigen. These antibodies can appear after infection or vaccination. The presence of these antibodies indicates your body’s immune reaction to HBV.

Why It Matters in Your Health

Finding antibodies to the hepatitis B core antigen can indicate whether you’ve had hepatitis B in the past, even if you don’t currently have symptoms. It’s important for monitoring infection status, guiding vaccination decisions, or confirming immunity.

When You Might Need This Test

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have risk factors for hepatitis B, such as exposure to infected blood, certain jobs (e.g., healthcare workers), or if you’re planning a pregnancy. It’s also used in screening for those with unexplained liver issues.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The process is quick and usually painless. If you’re nervous, let your provider know.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Anti-HBc (Qualitative)

Frequently asked questions

Why was this test ordered?
This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to hepatitis B virus, even if you don’t have active symptoms. It’s crucial for diagnosing past infection, assessing immunity, or guiding preventive measures like vaccination.
What do my results mean?
Positive results indicate your immune system has produced antibodies to the hepatitis B core antigen, suggesting past infection or vaccination. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found, which may mean you’ve never been exposed or are currently not immune.
Can I get hepatitis B from this test?
No, blood tests are performed using sterile equipment to prevent infection. Your blood is processed in a controlled lab environment, and the risk of transmission is extremely low.
  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