Hepatitis B Surface Antibody
Surface antigen usually appears in the serum following exposure to Hepatitis B virus and peaks shortly after onset of symptoms. It typically disappears within 1 to 3 months. Persistence of Hepatitis B surface antigen for greater than 6 months is a prognostic indicator of chronic Hepatitis B infection.
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is one of the several viruses that cause hepatitis. It is severely contagious, being spread mostly through unprotected sex. Hepatitis is a form of liver inflammation and enlargement which can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer. There are many tests that can be used to test for hepatitis B. The HBV surface antibody test measures the antibodies in the blood against HBV. This hepatitis lab test is useful to measure the immunity to HBV, 1 to 6 months after exposure. The antibody number diminish over time, requiring need for immunisation. It can also detect whether there was previous exposure to HBV.
This hepatitis lab test is performed in following conditions such as:
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dark urine and/or pale colored stool
• Anyone needing protection from HBV e.g. healthcare workers
Also Known As: Hepatitis B Immunity Test, Hep B Titer
It is recommended that someone taking Biotin (also known as vitamin B7 or B8, vitamin H, or coenzyme R) stop consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection of a sample.
Estimated Time Taken
The Hepatitis B Surface Antibody test typically sees results in 2-4 business days.