Hepatitis B Test Panel
A comprehensive blood test panel that checks for current hepatitis B infection, immunity status, and past exposure through three key markers.
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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.
What this test measures
This panel tests three distinct markers that together reveal a complete picture of hepatitis B status. The HBV Surface Antigen (HBsAg) is a protein on the outer shell of the virus; its presence indicates current infection and the ability to transmit the virus to others. The HBV Surface Antibody (anti-HBs) indicates immunity, either from successful vaccination or from natural recovery after a past infection. The HBV Core Antibody (anti-HBc) appears shortly after exposure and persists for life, serving as a marker of any prior contact with the virus.
The CDC recommends that all adults aged 18 and older undergo hepatitis B screening at least once using this triple-marker approach. Reading the three results together allows healthcare providers to classify an individual's status: never exposed and unvaccinated, vaccinated and immune, previously infected and recovered, or currently infected. This information guides decisions about vaccination needs, monitoring, treatment, and precautions to protect close contacts.
What's included
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Adults who have never been tested for hepatitis B and want to know their status
- People with multiple sexual partners or those whose partners have multiple partners
- Men who have sex with men
- People who inject drugs or share needles, syringes, or other drug equipment
- Household contacts or sexual partners of people with hepatitis B
- Healthcare and public safety workers exposed to blood
- People on dialysis or with kidney disease
- Individuals born in regions with high hepatitis B rates
- People with HIV or hepatitis C infection
What to expect
Preparation
No fasting or special preparation required. Avoid biotin supplements for 24 hours before testing.
Sample Type
A simple blood draw from a vein in the arm, taking just a few minutes
Collection
Visit any lab location with your test order, provide ID, and have blood drawn by trained staff
Turnaround
Results typically available within 1-3 business days through secure online portal
Understanding your results
Each of the three markers is reported as positive (reactive) or negative (non-reactive), and the combination determines hepatitis B status. For example, a negative HBsAg with a positive anti-HBs and negative anti-HBc typically indicates immunity from vaccination, while a negative HBsAg with positive anti-HBs and positive anti-HBc suggests immunity from natural recovery after past infection. A positive HBsAg indicates current infection regardless of the other markers. Healthcare providers evaluate the specific combination of results to determine the appropriate clinical interpretation and any recommended next steps, including vaccination for those who remain unprotected.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| HBV Surface Antigen | Negative/Non-reactive | Positive indicates current infection |
| HBV Surface Antibody | ≥10 mIU/mL protective | Indicates immunity from vaccination or recovery |
| HBV Core Antibody | Negative/Non-reactive | Positive indicates past or current exposure |
Reference ranges shown are general guidelines. Your lab report will include the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample, which is the authoritative range for interpreting your results.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Negative results for all three markers typically indicate no current infection and no immunity, suggesting vaccination may be beneficial. Surface antibody levels below 10 mIU/mL indicate lack of adequate immune protection. Negative core antibody indicates no previous exposure to hepatitis B virus.
What does a “High” result mean?
A positive surface antigen may indicate current hepatitis B infection and the ability to transmit the virus to others. A positive surface antibody (≥10 mIU/mL) indicates immunity from vaccination or recovery from past infection. A positive core antibody may indicate acute, chronic, or past resolved hepatitis B.
Privacy & confidentiality
Your hepatitis B test results are completely confidential and delivered securely through your private online account. Results are not shared with employers, insurance companies, or anyone else without your explicit consent. All testing is conducted with complete discretion and privacy protection.
Frequently asked questions
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Last reviewed: April 2026
CPT Code: 87340, 86706, 86707
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.
Order this test
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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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