High Anti-HBs Levels: Can You Still Contract Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B transmission issues

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my liver function test results.
Initially, my GOT was 42 and GPT was 76.
After a follow-up blood test, my GOT dropped to 18 and GPT to 20, and I also had an Anti-HBs level greater than 1000.
Could you please explain why my hepatitis B antibody levels are so high? Is it possible for me to contract hepatitis B?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/02

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It's impossible now; congratulations on having a strong immunity to hepatitis B.

Reply Date: 2023/05/02

More Info

When it comes to Hepatitis B, understanding the relationship between antibody levels and the risk of infection is crucial. In your case, with an Anti-HBs level exceeding 1000, it indicates a strong immune response against the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). This high level of antibodies suggests that you are well-protected against future infections.
Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B surface antibodies) are produced by the immune system in response to either a Hepatitis B infection or vaccination. A positive Anti-HBs result signifies that you have either cleared a past infection or have been successfully vaccinated against Hepatitis B. The protective threshold for Anti-HBs is generally considered to be above 10 mIU/mL, and levels above 1000 mIU/mL indicate robust immunity. Therefore, with your current levels, the likelihood of contracting Hepatitis B is extremely low, if not negligible.

However, it is important to note that while high Anti-HBs levels provide a strong defense against HBV, they do not guarantee absolute immunity in all circumstances. There are rare cases where individuals with high antibody levels can still contract the virus, particularly if they are exposed to a highly virulent strain or if their immune system is compromised. Nonetheless, these scenarios are quite uncommon.

Regarding your liver function tests, the fluctuation in your GOT (AST) and GPT (ALT) levels can be influenced by various factors, including lifestyle choices, medication use, and underlying health conditions. A GOT of 42 and GPT of 76 indicates mild elevation, which may not be alarming but warrants monitoring. The subsequent drop to GOT 18 and GPT 20 is a positive sign, suggesting improvement in liver function.
It is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle to support liver health, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol and hepatotoxic substances. If you have any underlying conditions or are taking medications that could affect liver function, it is advisable to discuss these with your healthcare provider.

In summary, with your current high Anti-HBs levels, you are well-protected against Hepatitis B. Regular monitoring of liver function and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key to ensuring ongoing liver health. If you have further concerns or experience any symptoms, do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and management.

Similar Q&A

High HBsAg Levels: What You Need to Know as a Chronic Hepatitis B Carrier

Doctor, I recently received my health check results, and my HBsAg level is 7186, which is very high. I am a carrier of hepatitis B, but my other liver function tests, including GOT, GPT, and AFP, are all normal. An abdominal ultrasound revealed a slight fatty liver. Regarding the...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, sir: A high HBsAg index only indicates that the viral load may be higher (this is often the case in young individuals). Please confirm whether HBsAg is positive and continue with follow-up. Staying up late is a common saying; when you feel fatigued and sleepy, it's be...

Understanding HBsAg Levels and Hepatitis B Virus Infection Risks

Hello Doctor, my husband had a health check-up over a month ago and was found to have a Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) level of 0.12 IU/ml. The physician's overall assessment indicates that there is a Hepatitis B virus in his body and that he is infectious. I would like...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. A positive HBsAg indicates an infection with the hepatitis B virus. Testing for IgM anti-HBc can determine if it is an acute hepatitis B infection. If HBsAg remains positive after six months and HBsAb is negative, it indicates chronic hepatitis B. 2. Hepatitis B is ...

Acute vs Chronic Hepatitis B: Understanding Your Diagnosis and Next Steps

Dear Dr. Chen, I apologize for the lengthy message, but I hope you can provide me with some advice. Last month, I went to the hospital for an examination due to stomach discomfort. The doctor ordered blood tests (first test on 5/13) which showed GOT 412 and GPT 1867. The doctor ...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, based on the clinical course and blood test follow-up, the likelihood of acute hepatitis B is the highest, and it seems that the patient has completely recovered from this acute hepatitis B episode, with the disappearance of surface antigens and the production of surface a...

Should You Take Tenofovir for HBsAg Positive, e Negative Mutant Hepatitis B?

Hello! I am a long-term carrier of hepatitis B. Over the past year, my liver enzyme levels have been elevated, with GOT ranging from 40 to 80 and GPT from 80 to 180. I have been undergoing regular follow-up checks at a private clinic, with blood tests and ultrasounds every three ...

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. For hepatitis B carriers with elevated liver enzymes, it is important to first investigate the underlying causes of liver function elevation. Hepatitis B virus, alcohol abuse, fatty liver, and medications can all contribute to increased enzyme levels. 2. The ...