What are the Screening Tests for Hepatitis B?
To screen for hepatitis B infection, you will need to have a small sample of blood drawn. This blood is tested initially for the following markers of HBV infection or protection: • Surface antigen (HBsAg): A positive test means a patient is infected with the hepatitis B virus and can infect others. • Surface antibody (HBsAby or anti-HBs): A positive test means a person is usually immune to the hepatitis B virus and cannot infect others. • Core antibody (HBcAby or anti-HBc) (Optional Test): A positive test usually means the person has been exposed to the hepatitis B virus. It does not indicate active infection or immunity; more testing for HBV may be needed.If your HBsAg is negative and anti-HBs is positive, you are immune to hepatitis B and no further testing is necessary. If this is not the case, a few further tests may be needed.
