Hepatitis B
Also known as: anti-HBs; HBsAg; HBeAg; anti-HBc; anti-HBc,IgM; anti-HBe; HBV DNA
Related tests: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis C
The Test Sample
What is being tested?
Hepatitis B antibodies are produced in response to exposure to the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The tests detect the presence of these antibodies or parts (antigens) of the virus itself.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is drawn by needle from a vein in the arm.
NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.
Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.
