Understanding the Hepatitis B Core Antibody – Total blood test

The Hepatitis B Core Antibody – Total blood test measures total antibodies (IgG and IgM) directed against the core antigen of the Hepatitis B virus. These antibodies are produced only after natural infection and are never generated by vaccination.

Because of this, the test plays a crucial role in identifying whether a person has ever been infected with Hepatitis B virus, regardless of whether the infection is current, resolved, or asymptomatic. Core antibodies usually remain detectable for life after exposure.

This test is commonly used as part of a broader Hepatitis B assessment to clarify infection history, particularly when vaccination status is unclear or when other Hepatitis B markers produce ambiguous results.

When testing for Hepatitis B Core Antibody – Total is clinically important

This test is recommended when there is a need to determine whether Hepatitis B exposure has occurred at any point in time. Many individuals with past Hepatitis B infection may have had no symptoms and may be unaware of previous exposure.

The test is especially valuable in distinguishing natural infection from vaccine-induced immunity, as vaccination does not produce core antibodies.

Testing may be appropriate if you:

• Are undergoing Hepatitis B screening
• Have abnormal liver function test results
• Have a positive Hepatitis B Surface Antibody and unclear cause
• Have been exposed to blood or body fluids
• Have a sexual partner with Hepatitis B
• Require occupational, visa, or insurance screening
• Need clarification of past Hepatitis B exposure
• Are being assessed as part of a Hepatitis B panel

Benefits of the Hepatitis B Core Antibody – Total test

• Confirms past or current Hepatitis B exposure
  Detects natural infection at any stage.
• Distinguishes infection from vaccination
  Core antibodies are never vaccine-induced.
• Identifies silent or asymptomatic infection
  Useful when no symptoms were ever present.
• Supports accurate Hepatitis B interpretation
  Essential for panel-based assessment.
• Clarifies confusing or mixed test results
  Helps resolve diagnostic uncertainty.
• Important for occupational and clinical screening
  Commonly required in healthcare settings.
• Simple blood test with no preparation required
  No fasting or lifestyle changes needed.
• Provides long-term infection history insight
  Antibodies typically persist for life.

How the test is carried out

We offer two convenient UK-wide testing options:

Clinic-based blood testing

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• A healthcare professional collects a blood sample
• The sample is analysed in a certified laboratory
• Results are issued once testing is complete

Home or hotel blood collection (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home, workplace, or hotel
• Blood is collected at a time convenient for you
• No clinic visit required
• Available nationwide across the UK

Both options use identical laboratory methods and clinical standards.

Understanding your Hepatitis B Core Antibody – Total results

Antibody not detected (Negative result)

No Hepatitis B Core Antibodies were detected. This suggests no evidence of past or current natural Hepatitis B infection.

Typical UK laboratory reporting:

• Negative / Non-reactive

If surface antibodies are also negative, vaccination may be recommended.

Antibody detected (Positive result)

The presence of Hepatitis B Core Antibodies indicates previous or current exposure to Hepatitis B virus.

Typical UK laboratory reporting:

• Positive / Reactive

Further Hepatitis B testing is usually required to determine whether infection is active, resolved, or inactive.

Borderline result

A borderline result indicates antibody levels that are not clearly positive or negative.

Typical UK laboratory reporting:

• Equivocal / Indeterminate

Repeat testing or additional markers may be advised.