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Serum Anti-Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (Qualitative)

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

This test checks for antibodies against the hepatitis B virus surface antigen, which your immune system produces after being exposed to the virus or after receiving a hepatitis B vaccine.

Quick summary

["Determines immunity status to hepatitis B infection or vaccination response."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26657-7
Short code
S haematobium Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
S haematobium Ab Ser Ql
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 detects the presence of antibodies called anti-HBs (anti-hepatitis B surface antibodies). These antibodies are produced by your immune system in response to exposure to the hepatitis B virus or after vaccination. If you have these antibodies, it suggests you’ve either recovered from hepatitis B or been vaccinated.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to check if you’re immune to hepatitis B, evaluate vaccination success, assess immunity in high-risk individuals, or monitor chronic hepatitis B patients for protection.

Sample Collection

A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The blood is processed into serum (liquid part after clotting) for testing.

Test Method

This is a qualitative immunoassay (IA) test, which uses antibodies to detect the presence of anti-HBs without providing a quantitative measurement of antibody levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B Surface Antibody)

Frequently asked questions

A positive result indicates immunity to hepatitis B, either from prior infection or vaccination. A negative result may mean you’re not immune and could be at risk for infection if exposed. Chronic hepatitis B patients should confirm ongoing immunity periodically.
This test alone does not diagnose active hepatitis B infection or liver damage. If you have symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal pain, further testing may be needed.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your immune system has produced anti-HBs antibodies, confirming immunity to hepatitis B. This could be from past infection (where your body cleared the virus) or vaccination (where your body built protective antibodies).
What if my test is negative?
A negative result suggests you may not be immune to hepatitis B. If you’re at risk (e.g., healthcare workers, travelers to high-risk areas, or those with chronic liver disease), you may need vaccination or booster shots to prevent infection.
  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