Hepatitis B Virus Tests

HBV Antibody Tests

Why It Is Done

Hepatitis B virus testing is done to:

• Identify the type of hepatitis B virus infection. Testing can determine whether an infection has occurred recently or in the past. Other tests that indicate how well the liver is functioning are usually done to help make treatment decisions.
• Screen people who have an increased risk of getting or spreading a hepatitis B infection, such as doctors, dentists, and nurses.
• Screen blood donors and donor organs to prevent the spread of hepatitis B.
• Find out if a person has developed antibodies after receiving vaccinations for hepatitis B. The presence of antibodies to hepatitis B virus (HBsAb) means that the vaccinations were effective.
• Find out if abnormal liver function tests are being caused by hepatitis B.
• Monitor how well treatment of chronic hepatitis B is working.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: October 15, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine W. Thomas London, MD - Hepatology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.