Consultation on Hepatitis B Testing Categories and Recommendations - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Consultation on Hepatitis B Testing Categories


Hello Dr.
Chen, thank you for your previous response.
Some time ago, I tested several hepatitis B markers: HBsAg <0.10 (negative, reference value <1, NHI code 14032), Anti-HBs 12.91 (positive, reference value ≥12, NHI code 14033), and Anti-HBcT (IgG+IgM) <0.07 (negative, reference value <0.5, NHI code 14037).
Given the numerous hepatitis B tests available, do you think I need to add a test for hepatitis B core antibody immunoglobulin M (Anti-HBc IgM, NHI code 14038)? I appreciate your time and assistance in answering this question.
Thank you very much.

JJ, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/06

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology


If antibodies are already present, additional testing may not be necessary.
Testing is only required for acute hepatitis B.

Reply Date: 2020/05/06

More Info


When it comes to Hepatitis B testing, understanding the various components and their implications is crucial for both diagnosis and management. Based on your recent test results, let's break down what each component means and whether further testing is necessary.

1. HBsAg (Hepatitis B Surface Antigen): Your result of HBsAg <0.10 indicates that you are negative for Hepatitis B infection. This means that there is no active viral replication in your body at this time. HBsAg is the primary marker used to determine if someone is currently infected with the virus.

2. Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B Surface Antibody): Your result of 12.91 is positive, which suggests that you have developed antibodies against the Hepatitis B virus. This typically occurs after vaccination or recovery from a past infection. Since your level is above the threshold of 12, it indicates that you have immunity to Hepatitis B.

3. Anti-HBc (Hepatitis B Core Antibody): The result of <0.07 for Anti-HBcT (IgG+IgM) indicates that you are negative for both IgG and IgM antibodies against the core antigen of the virus. This is significant because it suggests that you have not been infected with Hepatitis B in the past, as the presence of Anti-HBc would indicate a past infection.

Given these results, you are not currently infected with Hepatitis B, and you have immunity due to the presence of Anti-HBs.
Now, regarding your question about whether you should get tested for Anti-HBc IgM:
- Anti-HBc IgM is typically used to identify recent infections. If someone is in the acute phase of Hepatitis B, they will often have positive Anti-HBc IgM. However, since your HBsAg is negative and your Anti-HBc is also negative, it is unlikely that you are in the acute phase of infection. Therefore, testing for Anti-HBc IgM may not be necessary at this point.

In summary, your current test results indicate that you are not infected with Hepatitis B and have immunity against it. There is no immediate need for additional testing for Anti-HBc IgM, as your results do not suggest an active or recent infection.

Additional Considerations:
- Vaccination: Since you have positive Anti-HBs, it indicates that you have sufficient immunity, likely from vaccination. If you have received the complete vaccination series in the past, there is no need to revaccinate unless your antibody levels drop significantly, which is rare.


- Monitoring: It is generally a good practice to have regular check-ups, especially if you have risk factors for Hepatitis B or other liver diseases. Regular liver function tests can help monitor your liver health.

- Lifestyle Factors: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, can help support liver health.

If you have any further questions or concerns about your health or the implications of your test results, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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