Anti-HBc (hepatitis B core antibody) test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies against the core of the hepatitis B virus. They appear after infection, not after vaccination. Doctors order it to tell a recent hepatitis B infection (IgM) from a past one (IgG or total), usually alongside HBsAg and anti-HBs.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You are seated and your arm supported
- 2The nurse cleans a vein and inserts a fine needle
- 3Blood is drawn into one tube
- 4The lab tests for total or IgM antibody to hepatitis B core antigen
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Results are read together with other hepatitis B markers, so discuss the full set with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive IgM can point to a recent hepatitis B infection, while a positive total or IgG result shows infection at some point, current or past. A positive anti-HBc with negative HBsAg often means a past, resolved infection.
Who usually has this test
People with jaundice or abnormal liver tests, blood and organ donors, and people starting medicines that weaken immunity.
Risks and aftercare
Nothing special is needed; your doctor may add other hepatitis B markers.
Names and options
Also called: anti-HBc, HBcAb, hepatitis B core antibody, anti-HBc IgM, anti-HBc total
Options
- IgM
- IgG
- Total
Listed by the hospital as
- HEPATITIS B CORE ANTIBODY IGM
- ANTI HBC IGG, SERUM
- ANTI HBC IGM, SERUM
- ANTI HBC, TOTAL
Questions about this test
Can vaccination make anti-HBc positive?
No. The hepatitis B vaccine only makes anti-HBs. A positive anti-HBc always means contact with the virus at some time.
Why test anti-HBc before chemotherapy or immune-lowering medicines?
In people with a past infection, the virus can reactivate when immunity is lowered. Knowing your status lets your doctor plan monitoring or protective medicine.
What does isolated anti-HBc positive mean?
It means anti-HBc is positive but HBsAg and anti-HBs are negative. It can mean a past infection, a hidden low-level infection or a false positive, so doctors may run more tests.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.