What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Hepatitis B Core Antibody, Total, with Reflex to IgM Serum, which helps detects hepatitis B core IgG and IgM antibodies to confirm an active hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. A Hepatitis B Core Antibody, Total, with Reflex to IgM Serum, detects acute or short-term infections with hepatitis B and chronic infections with hepatitis B. Chronic hepatitis B is less common than acute hepatitis but can last for years and slowly damage the liver. Over time, chronic hepatitis can result in complications such as severe liver scarring, called cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
Hepatitis B Core Antibody (HBcAb) IgM test helps indicates recent or past infection with hepatitis B (≤6 months). The presence of these IgM antibodies, along with the presence of HBsAg, indicates an acute infection. After the disappearance of hepatitis B surface antigens, IgM hepatitis B core antibodies are detectable for up to two years after an acute infection and during flare-ups of chronic hepatitis B.
When should I order a Hepatitis B Core Antibody, Total, with Reflex to IgM Serum?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to acute viral hepatitis. Common signs or symptoms of acute viral hepatitis, such as HBV, include:
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Swollen blood vessels in the skin or
- Yellowed skin and eyes
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored bowel movements
- Joint pain
Individuals are advised to contact their healthcare provider for further questions regarding test results.
Sample Report
Preparation:
No special preparation is required.
Test Results:
2-3 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Details:
If Hepatitis B Core Antibody Total is reactive, then Hepatitis B Core IgM Antibody will be performed.
