What is the hepatitis B test called?

The main hepatitis B test is a blood panel that checks surface antigen, surface antibody, and core antibody. You may hear it called a hepatitis B serology panel or hepatitis B blood test. Different markers answer different questions, so one result rarely tells the whole story.

HBsAg is the surface antigen and can show current infection. Anti-HBs is the surface antibody and can indicate protection after vaccination or recovery. Anti-HBc is the core antibody and can show previous exposure. Clinicians may also request hepatitis B e antigen, e antibody, or viral DNA testing when they need more detail about activity.

Ask which markers are being ordered and whether you need any preparation; routine hepatitis B blood tests usually do not require a special diet. Bring vaccination details and any earlier results. A clinician may pair the panel with a [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/) to assess how the liver is responding. Do not interpret one marker alone or share needles, razors, or toothbrushes while results are being clarified.

Arrange medical review promptly if testing follows a needlestick, sexual exposure, or contact with blood, because preventive treatment can be time-sensitive. Seek urgent help for yellow skin or eyes, severe vomiting, confusion, unusual sleepiness, or significant abdominal swelling. [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/) and persistent [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/) also deserve assessment, although they have many possible causes.

Ask: Which hepatitis B markers are included? Could vaccination explain my antibody result? Do I need repeat testing, liver checks, or testing for household and sexual contacts? If I am not protected, ask about [Hepatitis B Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-b-vaccination/).