Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (Immunity)
The Hepatitis B Surface Antibody test measures immunity to hepatitis B virus, typically from vaccination or previous infection.
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Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
What this test measures
This test measures hepatitis B surface antibodies (anti-HBs), the specific antibodies the immune system produces in response to the hepatitis B surface antigen, either through vaccination or natural recovery from infection. The presence of these antibodies at adequate levels indicates that the immune system can recognize and neutralize the hepatitis B virus if encountered in the future.
Anti-HBs can develop through two pathways: successful completion of the hepatitis B vaccine series (the most common route in vaccinated populations) or natural immune clearance of a past hepatitis B infection. The test quantifies antibody concentration and compares it against the protective threshold. Healthcare providers order this test to verify immunity for employment requirements (particularly in healthcare), confirm vaccine response, assess whether a booster dose is needed, or provide peace of mind for individuals who want to know their current protection status.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Healthcare workers, first responders, and other individuals in occupations with potential blood or body fluid exposure who need to verify their immunity status for employment requirements.
- Individuals planning international travel to areas with higher hepatitis B prevalence who want to confirm their protection before departure.
- People who completed a hepatitis B vaccination series in the past and want to verify that they still maintain protective immunity levels.
- Adults who are unsure about their vaccination history or immunity status and want to determine if they need hepatitis B vaccination or booster shots.
- Individuals who may have been exposed to hepatitis B through household contacts, sexual partners, or other potential exposure situations and need to assess their immune status.
- People with compromised immune systems who may have reduced vaccine response and need regular monitoring of their antibody levels.
- Adults who received blood transfusions or organ transplants before routine hepatitis B screening and want to check their immunity status.
What to expect
Preparation
For 24 hours before specimen collection, patients should not take multivitamins or dietary supplements containing biotin (vitamin B7). No fasting is required. There are no other specific preparation requirements for this test.
Sample Type
A blood sample is collected from a vein in the arm using a standard needle. The procedure is quick and typically causes only minimal discomfort from the needle stick.
Collection
At the lab location, a healthcare professional will verify identification, explain the procedure, and collect the blood sample. The entire visit usually takes less than 15 minutes.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days and will be accessible through a secure online portal, with no doctor visit required to receive results.
Understanding your results
Results are reported as anti-HBs concentration in milli-international units per milliliter (mIU/mL). Levels at or above 10 mIU/mL are generally considered protective, indicating adequate immunity to hepatitis B virus. Levels below this threshold suggest insufficient protection, and the individual may benefit from a booster dose or, if never vaccinated, a full vaccine series. It is worth noting that antibody levels can wane over time even in successfully vaccinated individuals, though immune memory often persists and can mount a rapid response upon exposure. Healthcare providers interpret results in the context of vaccination history, risk factors, and clinical needs.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | ≥10 mIU/mL | Levels greater than 10-12 mIU/mL indicate protection against hepatitis B virus infection, either from vaccination or successful recovery from previous infection. |
| Adults | <10 mIU/mL | Levels less than 10.0 mIU/mL indicate a lack of recovery from acute or chronic hepatitis B or inadequate immune response to vaccination. |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Low or negative hepatitis B surface antibody levels generally mean that individuals are not immune to the hepatitis B virus. If other hepatitis B tests are also negative, it may mean that someone is either not infected or in the very early incubation stage of infection, prior to the point at which antibodies would be formed. Low levels (typically <10 mIU/mL) suggest that measurable protection is inadequate or uncertain. This doesn't diagnose an active infection; it indicates that protective immunity may be insufficient. Low levels may require vaccination or revaccination depending on individual circumstances.
What does a “High” result mean?
High levels of hepatitis B surface antibodies (≥10 mIU/mL) are generally interpreted as indicating recovery and immunity from hepatitis B virus infection. These antibodies also develop in individuals who have been successfully vaccinated against hepatitis B. Among vaccine responders who completed a vaccine series, antibody levels can decline over time, however the majority are still immune and will mount a response when exposed to hepatitis B virus. Very high antibody levels typically indicate robust immunity and may not require immediate revaccination.
Privacy & confidentiality
All test results are completely confidential and protected under HIPAA regulations. Results are not sent to your personal doctor or added to your medical records unless you choose to share them. Testing is not billed through insurance, ensuring your privacy and avoiding any potential impact on your insurance coverage.
Frequently asked questions
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Last reviewed: April 2026
CPT Code: 86706
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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LevelPanel has no business or affiliate relationship with Quest or LabCorp. These links are provided as a public service.
Lab testing services linked from this site are not available to residents of Alaska, Arizona, or Hawaii, unless otherwise noted on the lab's own website.
This publication is not intended to solicit the purchase of laboratory testing from any individual consumer.
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