How do you read Hep B antibodies results?
For hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs), a level less than 5 mIU is considered negative, while a level more than 12 mIU is considered protective. Any value between 5 and 12 mIU is indeterminate and should be repeated.
What blood test shows immunity to hepatitis B?
The hepatitis B surface antibody test (HBsAb) detects proteins called antibodies that are produced by the immune system in response to the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The test is used to determine if you are immune to the virus after natural exposure or vaccination.
Does hepatitis B show up in blood test?
Blood tests can detect signs of the hepatitis B virus in your body and tell your doctor whether it’s acute or chronic. A simple blood test can also determine if you’re immune to the condition. Liver ultrasound. A special ultrasound called transient elastography can show the amount of liver damage.
How long does it take to develop hepatitis B antibodies?
HBsAg will be detected in an infected person’s blood an average of 4 weeks (range: 1–9 weeks) after exposure to the virus.
Can I donate blood if I have hepatitis B antibodies?
People infected with hepatitis B may carry the virus without even knowing it. They can pass it to others through blood or sexual contact. Because of this, anyone who has ever tested positive for hepatitis B cannot donate blood.
How long do hepatitis B antibodies last?
Understand that hepatitis B vaccination-induced protective antibodies can last for up to 15 years, but appear to fall off over time. Patients who were vaccinated 10 to 15 years ago, especially those who were vaccinated as children, may not be adequately protected.
What does it mean to test positive for hepatitis B antibodies?
A positive HBsAg test result means that you are infected and can spread the hepatitis B virus to others through your blood. anti-HBs or HBsAb (Hepatitis B surface antibody) – A “positive” or “reactive” anti-HBs (or HBsAb) test result indicates that a person is protected against the hepatitis B virus.