Hepatitis B (HBV) Surface Antibody (HBsAb), Total
CPT Code(s):
86706
Turnaround Time:
24 - 48 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Serum
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Rejection Criteria:
Sodium Citrate plasma; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
2 hours
Refrigerated:
6 days
Frozen:
90 days
Clinical Significance
The Anti-Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (Anti-HBs) test holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the field of infectious disease and hepatology. This test is designed to detect the presence of antibodies against the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in a patient's blood.
The clinical significance and diagnostic use of the Anti-HBs test include:
1. Assessment of Immunity: The Anti-HBs test is used to assess a patient's immune status against Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The presence of Anti-HBs antibodies indicates prior exposure to the virus or vaccination against Hepatitis B. Immunity to HBV can occur naturally after recovery from a previous infection or through successful vaccination. The Anti-HBs test helps confirm immunity, indicating protection against future HBV infection.
2. Monitoring Vaccine Response: The Anti-HBs test is utilized to evaluate the effectiveness of Hepatitis B vaccination. After completing the Hepatitis B vaccine series, the presence of Anti-HBs antibodies indicates a successful immune response to the vaccine. It helps healthcare providers assess whether an individual has developed adequate immunity against HBV and may require booster doses if antibody levels decline over time.
3. Confirmation of Past Infection: In individuals with a history of Hepatitis B infection, the Anti-HBs test can confirm the resolution of the infection and the development of immunity. After the acute phase of Hepatitis B, the presence of Anti-HBs antibodies indicates viral clearance and recovery. This information is valuable for patient management, as it indicates a reduced risk of chronic infection and the potential for future protection against HBV.
4. Screening for Occupational Exposures: The Anti-HBs test is utilized in occupational health settings to screen individuals at risk of Hepatitis B exposure, such as healthcare workers or laboratory personnel. It helps determine if these individuals have developed protective immunity against HBV, either through vaccination or prior infection. Immune individuals are less likely to acquire HBV infection and can safely continue their work without the need for additional precautions.
5. Prevention of Perinatal Transmission: The Anti-HBs test is also relevant in preventing perinatal transmission of Hepatitis B. Pregnant women with chronic Hepatitis B are tested for Anti-HBs antibodies to identify those who are immune. Newborns of immune mothers are at a lower risk of acquiring HBV infection and may not require specific interventions such as Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) administration.
In summary, the Anti-HBs test has specific clinical significance and diagnostic uses in assessing immunity to HBV, monitoring vaccine response, confirming past infection, screening for occupational exposures, and preventing perinatal transmission of Hepatitis B. By detecting the presence of Anti-HBs antibodies, this test provides valuable information for patient management, vaccination strategies, and preventing the transmission of Hepatitis B virus.