Your Hepatitis B Test Results: HBsAg and Anti-HBs Explained

Q: Your Hepatitis B Test Results: HBsAg and Anti-HBs Explained

Hello, Miss： Young people often have received the hepatitis B vaccine, and after many years, the antibody levels may decrease to undetectable levels. <br>Adults, on the other hand, may not have been vaccinated and have not been infected. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your hea

Health check-up

The recent health check report shows the following results: Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is NEGATIVE (<0.54) and Hepatitis B surface antibody (Anti-HBs) is NEGATIVE (<1.8).
What does this mean? Thank you for your response!

Jia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/07/06

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, Miss: Young people often have received the hepatitis B vaccine, and after many years, the antibody levels may decrease to undetectable levels.
Adults, on the other hand, may not have been vaccinated and have not been infected.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian

Reply Date: 2009/07/06

More Info

Understanding your Hepatitis B test results is crucial for assessing your liver health and potential risk for Hepatitis B infection. In your case, the test results show that both the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and the Hepatitis B surface antibody (Anti-HBs) are negative. Let's break down what this means and the implications for your health.

HBsAg and Anti-HBs Explained
1. HBsAg (Hepatitis B Surface Antigen): This is a protein on the surface of the Hepatitis B virus. The presence of HBsAg in your blood indicates that you are currently infected with the virus. Since your result is negative (less than 0.54), it means that there is no active Hepatitis B infection in your body.

2. Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B Surface Antibody): This antibody is produced by your immune system in response to the Hepatitis B virus. A positive Anti-HBs result indicates that you have either recovered from a past Hepatitis B infection or have been vaccinated against the virus. Since your result is negative (less than 1.8), it suggests that you do not have immunity to Hepatitis B, either through vaccination or past infection.

Interpretation of Your Results
Given that both HBsAg and Anti-HBs are negative, the interpretation is as follows:
- No Current Infection: You are not currently infected with Hepatitis B.

- No Immunity: You have not developed immunity to Hepatitis B, which could be due to not having been vaccinated or not having had a past infection.

Recommended Actions
1. Vaccination: Since you do not have immunity to Hepatitis B, it is highly recommended that you consider getting vaccinated. The Hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective, and it can provide you with long-lasting protection against the virus. The vaccination series typically consists of three doses administered over a six-month period.

2. Follow-Up Testing: After vaccination, it is advisable to have follow-up blood tests to check for the presence of Anti-HBs to confirm that you have developed immunity.

3. Education on Hepatitis B: Understanding how Hepatitis B is transmitted can help you take precautions to avoid potential exposure. Hepatitis B is primarily spread through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. This can occur through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth.

4. Regular Health Check-Ups: Continue to have regular health check-ups, including liver function tests, especially if you have risk factors for liver disease or Hepatitis B.

Conclusion
In summary, your test results indicate that you are not currently infected with Hepatitis B and do not have immunity to the virus. It is advisable to get vaccinated to protect yourself from potential future infections. If you have any further questions or concerns, discussing them with your healthcare provider can provide you with personalized guidance and support. Taking proactive steps now can help ensure your long-term health and well-being.

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