Frequently Asked Questions

Question

Accepted Answer

• Is fasting required for the Hepatitis B Core Antibody test? No, fasting is not necessary for this laboratory blood test. • Who should consider taking the HBc IgM test? It is recommended for individuals with acute hepatitis symptoms, those in close contact with Hepatitis B patients, and high-risk groups such as healthcare workers. • What symptoms are associated with acute Hepatitis B infection? Symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), dark urine, extreme fatigue, nausea, and pain in the upper right abdomen. • What does a negative HBc IgM result mean? A negative result (less than 1.0 S/CO) indicates that no acute Hepatitis B infection is present. • What is the clinical purpose of the HBc IgM test? This test is used to diagnose acute Hepatitis B infection and distinguish it from chronic infection. It also helps monitor the stage of the infection and the body's immune response. • How are the numerical S/CO results of the HBc IgM test interpreted? Results below 1.0 S/CO are negative, values between 1.0 and 1.2 S/CO are considered inconclusive, and results above 1.2 S/CO are positive, indicating an acute infection.

Acute Hepatitis B Core Test - Hepatitis B Core Antibody (HBc IgM) Test