Hepatitis Antibody and Antigen Panel

What this test measures

The hepatitis A, B, and C viruses are transmitted differently and produce different laboratory markers. This panel screens for each virus at once, combining antibodies that indicate immune response with antigens that can indicate current infection. That breadth makes it useful when the specific virus is unknown.

The sample is serum from a standard blood draw. Typical markers include anti-HAV total and IgM, HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc total and IgM, HBeAg, anti-HBe, anti-HCV, and sometimes HCV RNA. Liver enzymes such as ALT and AST are often added to show whether the liver is currently affected.

People order this panel after possible exposure, when symptoms suggest liver inflammation, for pre-procedure or insurance requirements, or as part of a routine sexual health review. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the results and determine whether confirmatory or follow-up testing is needed.

• Anti-HAV total and IgM antibodies
• HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen)
• Anti-HBs (hepatitis B surface antibody)
• Anti-HBc total and IgM antibodies
• HBeAg and anti-HBe markers
• Anti-HCV (hepatitis C antibody)
• HCV RNA when included
• ALT and AST liver enzymes

Why people order this test

• Screen for all three hepatitis viruses in one collection
• Evaluate symptoms that suggest liver inflammation
• Follow up after a known or suspected exposure
• Meet program or pre-procedure testing requirements
• Establish a baseline for a clinician to review

How to prepare

Fasting is not required, and the sample can be collected at any time. A venous blood draw is performed at a laboratory. Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory.

Understanding your results

Reports are typically ready within one to three business days. Different marker patterns indicate immunity, past exposure, or active infection, and a healthcare provider explains what the combination means for each virus.