Hepatitis B Core Antibody IgG (Serum/Plasma)

What Does This Test Measure?

The test detects IgG antibodies produced by your immune system in response to hepatitis B core antigens. IgG antibodies typically develop after an initial infection and can persist for years, even if the virus has cleared from your body. This test is often used alongside other hepatitis B markers to assess infection history or chronic infection status.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have risk factors for hepatitis B (e.g., exposure history, travel to regions with high HBV prevalence, or recent vaccination), if you’re asymptomatic but have risk behaviors, or if you’re being evaluated for chronic liver disease.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result suggests you’ve had hepatitis B at some point, as your immune system has produced IgG antibodies. This does not necessarily mean you’re currently infected; it may indicate immunity from past infection or vaccination. Chronic infection requires further testing for HBV DNA or surface antibodies.

What If My Result Is Negative?

A negative result means you likely do not have IgG antibodies to hepatitis B core, which could mean you’ve never been exposed or infected. However, this does not guarantee immunity—other markers (like surface antibodies) may be needed for full assessment.