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Hepatitis B Core Antibody IgG (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures the presence of hepatitis B core antibody IgG in your blood. It helps determine if your immune system has previously encountered the hepatitis B virus.

Quick summary

["This test can help track past infection and immune response to hepatitis B."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
83100-8
Short code
HBV core IgG+IgM SerPl Ql IA
Synonyms
HBV core IgG+IgM SerPl Ql IA
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
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 the hepatitis B core antigen. IgG antibodies are typically produced months to years after an initial infection and remain in the blood long-term if the body has cleared the virus.

Why It Matters for Your Health

IgG antibodies to hepatitis B core indicate that your immune system has recognized and fought the virus. This does not mean you are currently infected but confirms past exposure and immunity.

When You Might 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 transmission, exposure to infected blood, or certain occupations). It may also be used during screening or follow-up for chronic hepatitis B.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it typically takes only a few minutes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HBc IgG

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates your body has previously encountered the hepatitis B virus. This does not mean you are currently infected, but it confirms your immune system has developed antibodies to fight it. You may have recovered from infection or been vaccinated.
Can this test tell me if I’m currently infected with hepatitis B?
No, this test alone cannot determine if you have an active hepatitis B infection. For that, you would need tests for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) or hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg), which check for ongoing viral activity.
Is there any risk or discomfort with this blood test?
There is a small risk of bruising, slight pain, or swelling at the needle site. Most people experience minimal discomfort, and the area may feel tender for a few hours afterward. Rarely, there could be a reaction to the blood draw, but this is uncommon.
  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