Hepatitis B Package

The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) test detects HBsAg, a protein on the surface of the hepatitis B virus (HBV), in the blood. It is an important screening test for HBV infection. A reactive result needs follow-up with additional tests, such as anti-HBs and total anti-HBc antibodies, and can be confirmed with HBV DNA testing by PCR. This test helps identify individuals who may need medical treatment and supports measures to prevent the spread of hepatitis B. The test uses automated chemiluminescence immunoassay (CMIA/CLIA) technology, which may vary slightly across laboratories.

What Do the Results Mean?

Pathological Factors

Physiological Factors
 🧒 Age: Newborns and infants may have maternal HBsAg in their blood, which can affect test results.

🫄 Pregnancy: Changes in immunity and liver function during pregnancy may slightly affect HBsAg detection.

⏳ Infection Stage: Very early infection (window period) or late/chronic stages may change HBsAg levels.

Lifestyle Factors

🥗 Alcohol: Heavy drinking can affect liver function, which may indirectly influence test results.

💊 Medications: Antivirals or immunosuppressive drugs can lower viral levels, potentially altering HBsAg readings.

💉 Recent Vaccination: Hepatitis B vaccination may affect antibody levels but usually does not impact HBsAg detection.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

What Do Negative Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Results Mean?

A negative result usually means you do not have an active hepatitis B infection at the time of the test. It does not rule out a past infection or very early-stage infection.

What Do Positive Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Results Mean?

A positive result means the hepatitis B virus is present in your blood. Early detection enables timely treatment, monitoring, and measures to prevent the spread to others.

What to Do if Your Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Result Is Positive?

• Consult your doctor for further evaluation and treatment
• Inform close contacts so they can get vaccinated or tested
• Follow your doctor’s schedule for liver check-ups and viral load monitoring
• Avoid sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes

Can Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Results Be Inaccurate?

Though the test is reliable, certain factors may lead to false-positive or false-negative results:

• Low viral load (in the early stage
• Improper sample collection or handling
• Interference from recent vaccination or medical conditions

The HBeAg (Hepatitis B Envelope Antigen) test measures the presence of the HBeAg in the blood, indicating active viral replication. A positive result signifies that the virus is replicating at a high level, suggesting a higher risk of transmission to others and potential progression to more severe liver disease. Conversely, a negative result may indicate lower viral activity or that the virus is in a non-replicative state.

Understanding the significance of HBeAg status is crucial in managing chronic hepatitis B infection. It helps guide treatment decisions, informs about the potential for liver damage, and aids in assessing the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. Regular monitoring through this test can play a pivotal role in maintaining liver health and preventing complications associated with chronic hepatitis B.

The Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B Surface antibody) test measures the presence of antibodies produced by the immune system against hepatitis B virus (HBV) or the hepatitis B vaccine (immunity) in vaccinated individuals. There are two types of antibodies produced in response to the hepatitis B virus: Immunoglobulin M (IgM) and Immunoglobulin G (IgG). IgM antibodies mount the first attack against HBV but eventually fades away. IgG antibodies provide long-lasting immune protection against HBV. The immunity can last for many years, but it gradually decreases over time.

A positive test result indicates immunity to hepatitis B, either from past infection and subsequent recovery or from vaccination. The Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B Surface antibody) test is important to determine whether you have protective immunity against HBV and if you are at risk of contracting the virus in the future. It can also help guide decisions on whether you need the hepatitis B vaccine or a booster shot to maintain immunity. 

The Hepatitis B (Core) Total Antibody test identifies total antibodies (IgM and IgG) against the hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc). It is a key marker for determining whether an individual has ever been infected with the virus, regardless of whether the infection is currently active. By detecting the presence of anti-HBc, doctors can assess the progression of the infection and make informed decisions about treatment and monitoring. This test is crucial for understanding the history of hepatitis B in an individual, which can help prevent future liver damage and transmission of the virus.