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Catalog ID HBV Core Hepatitis B Core Antibody (Total)

CPOE Test Name

Hepatitis B Core Antibody

Synonyms

HCORE; AHBC; Antibody to Hepatitis B Core Antigen; Anti-Hbc; Anti-hepatitis B Core; CORE; Core Antibody

Specimen Type

Serum

Specimen Requirements

5 mL gold top SST tube; 2 mL blood

Storage and Transport

Specimens may be stored at 2-8° C for a maximum of 7 days. Specimens which are not tested within this time period should be stored frozen. Multiple freeze-thaw cycles are not recommended although studies show that up to 5 freeze-thaw cycles have no significant effect on the ability to detect Hepatitis B Core antibody.

Reference Values

Nonreactive

Interpretation

Presence of Hepatitis B core antibody indicates acute hepatitis B infection, convalescence, recovery from hepatitis B infection, chronic hepatitis, or carrier state. Hepatitis B core antibody is found in serum shortly after the appearance of hepatitis B surface antigen in acute hepatitis B and will persist after the disappearance of HBsAg and before the appearance of detectable antibody to HBsAg. Therefore, in the absence of HBsAg and anti HBs, anti HBc may be the only serological marker of recent hepatitis B infection and potentially infectious individuals.

Causes for Rejection

Improper specimen; improper labeling; insufficient quantity. Specimens containing sodium azide may give false positive reactions and should not be tested. Heat inactivated serum cannot be used for this assay.

Turn Around Time

12 hours from time of testing

CPT / HCPCS Code

86289

Performing Lab

Core Laboratory BI 2023 721-2120

Methodology

EIA (Enzyme Immunoassay)

Test Consists

The qualitative detection of total antibody to Hepatitis B Core antigen.