Hepatitis B is an infectious liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Chronic HBV infection often does not cause symptoms in its early stages, so only about 33% of adults with chronic hepatitis are aware they are infected.

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is a distinctive serological marker of acute or chronic hepatitis B infection. HBsAg is the first antigen to appear following infection with HBV and is generally detected 1-10 weeks after the onset of clinical symptoms. HBsAg assays are routinely used to diagnose suspected HBV infection and monitor the status of infected individuals to determine whether the infection has resolved or the individual has become a chronic carrier of the virus.

This test helps screen for presence of the virus but does not provide information on current immunity. To check for immunity (antibodies) toward the hepatitis B virus, please see LC006395, Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Test (HBsAb / Anti-HBs)

A Negative result does not rule out the possibility of active hepatitis infection. There is sometimes a “core window” stage when HBsAg has become negative, and surface antibodies have not yet developed. When both HbsAg and Anti-HBs are negative, Hepatitis B Core Antibodies (HBcAb / Anti-HBc) (not available from Life Extension) are usually positive.

Summary of hepatitis B serological markers

• Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) (LC006510)– indicates presence of the hepatitis B virus (infection).

• Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (HBsAb / Anti-HBs) (LC006395) – indicates immunity toward the hepatitis B virus, either by past exposure or vaccination.

• Hepatitis B Core Antibody (HBcAb / Anti-HBc) – indicates immune response toward hepatitis B virus, but does not imply immunity/protection against the virus. Often used to evaluate suspected infection when both HBsAg and HBsAb are negative (This test is not available from Life Extension).

Sample Report

Instructions

Fasting is not required for this test. Take all medications as prescribed.