Hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antibody - serum specimen
- LIS Mnemonic: HBVSAB
Collect
Gold (SST - Clot activator & gel)
Volume Required
2 ml blood
Minimum Required
1 ml serum
Transport
A total of 2-4 ml of blood (for every 2-3 HIV and Hepatitis tests ordered) should be collected and submitted at room temperature to the laboratory.
Days Performed
Monday thru Friday
Reported
Daily
CPT
86706
Methodology
Microparticle Enzyme Immunoassay
Disease Information
Utility:
The presence of IgG antibody to Hepatitis B virus surface antigen (anti-HBs) indicates past infection or seroconversion following immunization. Anti-HBs generally appears during early convalescence and usually after HBsAg is no longer detectable; low levels of anti-HBs can occasionally be observed in the presence of HBsAg. This antibody persists for life and is a marker of recovery and immunity.
Interpretation
The presence of HBV surface antibody is indicative of recovery from and immunity to infection with HBV or vaccination against HBV. Results >12 mIU/ml are considered reactive and the individual is considered immune to HBV infection. Results <8 mIU/ml are considered non-reactive and the individual is considered not to be immune to HBV infection. NOTE: Recipients of intravenous immunoglobulin, newborn infants possessing pasively acquired maternal antibody, or patients who have received recent blood transfusions may be positive for antibody to HBV surface antigen. For diagnostic purposes, antibody reactivity to HBV surface antigen should be correlated with patient history and other hepatitis markers for diagnosis of past or present infection, or vaccination against HBV.
Reference Values
Negative (e.g., <8 mIU/ml) or nonreactive for Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) surface antibody
Contact Us
- 215-590-2050
- Fax: 215-590-2556
- Contact Us Online