Hepatitis B Core Antibody Test (Anti-HBc)

The Hepatitis B Core Antibody Test (Anti-HBc) is a blood test used to determine whether you have ever been exposed to the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Unlike other hepatitis B markers that can disappear over time, anti-HBc typically remains detectable for life following exposure, making it a valuable marker for identifying current, resolved, or occult hepatitis B infection.

This test is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:

• Anyone undergoing routine sexual health screening or pre-operative assessment.
• Healthcare workers and other professionals requiring occupational health clearance.
• Pregnant women as part of antenatal screening programmes.
• Individuals with abnormal liver function tests of unknown cause.
• People born in or travelling from regions where hepatitis B is common.
• Sexual partners or household contacts of someone diagnosed with hepatitis B.
• Patients about to start immunosuppressive therapy or chemotherapy, where reactivation of dormant HBV is a risk.
• Anyone wishing to confirm their hepatitis B status before vaccination.

Marker screened

• Hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc): This antibody is produced by the immune system in response to the core protein of the hepatitis B virus. A positive result indicates that exposure to HBV has occurred at some point. It does not by itself distinguish between an active infection and a resolved one, so it is often interpreted alongside other hepatitis B markers such as surface antigen (HBsAg) and surface antibody (anti-HBs).

Why it matters

Hepatitis B is a major global health concern and can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer if left undetected. Many people with chronic hepatitis B have no symptoms and are unaware they carry the virus. Identifying past or current exposure through anti-HBc testing allows for appropriate clinical follow-up, informed decisions about vaccination, and timely referral for specialist care where needed. It also plays a critical role in protecting others through blood donation screening and infection control in healthcare settings.