Hepatitis A Antibody Blood Test

What this test measures

Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by a virus that spreads mainly through contaminated food, water, or close contact. The immune system responds by producing antibodies, and the pattern of those antibodies helps distinguish past exposure from recent infection. A total antibody test detects both IgG and IgM classes together.

The sample is serum from a routine blood draw. In addition to total anti-HAV, some panels report IgG and IgM separately, while liver enzymes such as ALT and AST may be added for context. Molecular testing for HAV RNA is available when a clinician needs confirmation during the early phase of infection.

Testing is often requested before travel, as part of a vaccination assessment, after a known exposure, or when liver symptoms need evaluation. The report is educational information for a healthcare provider, who decides whether additional testing or follow-up is appropriate.

• Anti-HAV total antibodies
• Anti-HAV IgG antibodies
• Anti-HAV IgM antibodies
• HAV RNA by molecular testing when indicated
• ALT (liver enzyme context)
• AST (liver enzyme context)
• Total bilirubin
• Albumin

Why people order this test

• Confirm immunity from past infection or vaccination
• Assess hepatitis A status before travel
• Investigate a known or suspected exposure
• Support the evaluation of liver-related symptoms
• Complete a broader hepatitis panel

How to prepare

No fasting is required, and the blood sample can be collected at any time of day. A routine venous draw is performed at a laboratory. Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory.

Understanding your results

Results are typically available within one to three business days. The presence of IgG antibodies generally indicates past infection or vaccination, while IgM antibodies can suggest a more recent infection; a healthcare provider interprets the pattern.