Hepatitis B Core Antibody, Serum/Plasma (Qualitative)

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have risk factors for hepatitis B, such as exposure to infected blood, certain medical conditions, or if you’re planning a pregnancy. It can also be part of routine screening for those in high-risk groups, like healthcare workers or travelers to regions with high HBV prevalence.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result means your body has produced antibodies against the hepatitis B core antigen. This could indicate past infection (your immune system has already fought off the virus) or ongoing infection (the virus is still active). It does not confirm active hepatitis B virus replication alone but is useful alongside other tests for diagnosis.

What Does a Negative Result Mean?

A negative result means your body did not detect antibodies to the hepatitis B core antigen in this sample. This could mean you have never been exposed to the virus or that the test was taken too early after exposure. Follow-up testing may be needed if you suspect exposure.

What Are Common Risk Factors?

You may be at higher risk for hepatitis B if you’ve had unprotected sex with someone infected, shared needles, received blood products before safe screening practices, or live in areas with high HBV prevalence. Healthcare workers, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic liver disease also face increased risk.