Hepatitis B Core Antibody, Qualitative (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to the hepatitis B core antigen, which can help identify past or current hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
["This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to hepatitis B virus."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 75378-0
- Short code
- HBV core Ab SerPlBld Ql IA.rapid
- Synonyms
- HBV core Ab SerPlBld Ql IA.rapid
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia-rapid
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
The test looks for specific antibodies (proteins) your immune system produces in response to the hepatitis B core antigen. These antibodies can appear after infection or vaccination. A positive result suggests exposure to HBV, but it doesn’t always mean an active infection is ongoing.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have risk factors for hepatitis B (e.g., travel to areas with high HBV prevalence, sexual exposure, or exposure to infected blood), or if you’re being evaluated for chronic liver conditions. It can also be part of screening for those who’ve received the hepatitis B vaccine.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel slight discomfort, but it’s brief. If you’re pregnant or have a bleeding disorder, let your provider know before the test.
What to Expect After the Test
After the blood is drawn, you may experience mild bruising, swelling, or soreness at the site. Apply gentle pressure to slow bleeding, and avoid heavy lifting for a few hours. Rest and monitor the area for any unusual signs.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result indicates exposure to HBV, which may have led to infection. However, antibodies alone don’t confirm active hepatitis B. If you test positive, further testing (like hepatitis B surface antibody or viral load) may be needed to assess your health status and treatment options. A negative result means you likely haven’t been exposed recently, but prior infection could still be possible.
Short name
Hepatitis B Core Antibody (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used to diagnose active hepatitis B?
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