Description
The hepatitis B core antibody test, sometimes known as the anti-HBc test, hep B core IgM antibody test, and hepatitis B core antibody blood test, measures the hepatitis B core IgM antibody blood level. Hepatitis B core-specific IgM class antibody has been detected in most acute infections and is a reliable marker for acute disease. In some cases, hepatitis B core IgM antibody may be the only specific marker for the diagnosis of acute infection with hepatitis B virus.
The hep B core IgM antibody test is used to look for an active hepatitis B infection (prior HBV exposure) in the blood. Typically, hepatitis B core antibodies are found approximately fourteen days after an initial infection and usually within six months of an infection. The hepatitis B core antibody test is often used along with the hepatitis B surface antigen test and the hepatitis b surface antibody test to check for a hepatitis B infection and/or immunity to hepatitis B. People may have false-negative results if they are receiving mouse antibody therapy. False-positive results may occur after the flu shot and in people with hypergammaglobulinemia, connective tissue disorders or a positive rheumatoid factor.
The hep B core antibody test may not be reliable in people who have Appetite loss. If you have Low-grade fever, Muscle and joint aches , Nausea and vomiting or Yellow skin and dark urine due to jaundice , we recommend that you seriously consider a Hepatitis B Core Antibody (IgM) test.
