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Hepatitis B Blood Panel

The hepatitis B blood panel is made up of 3 tests, but you only need to give one blood sample. This test can be done easily in your doctors office or local health clinic.

  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg): if this test is positive, then the hepatitis B virus is present in the blood. This means that you have a hepatitis B infection.
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (HBsAb or anti-HBs): If this test is positive, then you are immune to hepatitis B. You cannot become infected with the virus, nor can you pass the virus on to others.
  • Hepatitis B Core Antibody (HBcAb or anti-HBc): If this test is positive, then you may have been exposed to the hepatitis B virus, but it does not tell you whether you are currently infected. Once you are exposed to hepatitis B, this test will likely remain positive for life, even after you have recovered.

Clinic — If you want to be tested for hepatitis B, you can visit www.hepclinics.org to find a clinic near you. (back to text)

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