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DNA Labs India

Hepatitis B Core Antibody (Anti-HBc) Total Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Hepatitis B Core Antibody (Anti-HBc) Total Test

Short Name: Anti-HBc Total Test

Also known as: Hepatitis B Core Antibody Total Test, Anti-HBc Total, HBcAb Total

Hepatitis B Core Antibody (Anti-HBc) Total Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,287. Uses Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA) on Serum samples. Results in Results are typically available same day or within 24 hours. Online reports can be accessed via portal or email.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Serology TestAll Ages🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The purpose of the Anti-HBc Total Test is to diagnose past or current hepatitis B virus infection, determine the need for vaccination, monitor chronic HBV infection, and assess immunity in individuals with unknown etiology of hepatitis. It is used in screening programs and clinical management to prevent transmission and guide treatment.

Test Code
705
Price
₹1,287
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Results are typically available same day or within 24 hours. Online reports can be accessed via portal or email.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA)
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation required. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or recent vaccinations.

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a trained phlebotomist. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball to stop bleeding. You may resume normal activities immediately.

Timeline: Results are typically available same day or within 24 hours. Online reports can be accessed via portal or email.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation required. Ensure to bring your doctor's prescription and identification.
2
During the Test:A small blood sample is collected from your arm vein. The process takes about 5-10 minutes.
3
After the Test:You can leave immediately after sample collection. Apply bandage if needed and avoid heavy lifting for a few hours.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of the Anti-HBc Total Test is to diagnose past or current hepatitis B virus infection, determine the need for vaccination, monitor chronic HBV infection, and assess immunity in individuals with unknown etiology of hepatitis. It is used in screening programs and clinical management to prevent transmission and guide treatment.

How to Prepare

  • Fasting is not required for this test
  • Stay hydrated and wear loose clothing for easy access to the arm
  • Inform the collector about any bleeding disorders or allergies

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670

"This test is essential for diagnosing hepatitis B infection, assessing immunity, and guiding clinical management in infected individuals."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume2 mL (1 mL min.)
ContainerSST (Serum Separator Tube)
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Room Temperature: Up to 2 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C): Up to 1 week
Frozen (-20°C): Up to 2 weeks
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed, lipemic, or icteric samples
  • Insufficient sample volume
  • Improperly labeled or contaminated samples

Understanding Your Results

Results of the Anti-HBc Total Test indicate the presence or absence of antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen, helping to determine infection status.
📊

Positive (Reactive)

Suggests past or current hepatitis B infection. Further testing with other HBV markers is recommended to clarify acute, chronic, or resolved infection.

📊

Negative (Non-reactive)

No detectable antibodies, indicating no past infection or early infection before antibody development. Consider vaccination if at risk.

📊

Equivocal (Borderline)

Requires repeat testing or additional confirmatory tests for accurate diagnosis.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a healthcare provider if your test is positive, if you experience symptoms of hepatitis B, or if you have been exposed to the virus. Regular monitoring is advised for chronic HBV infection.

Limitations

  • Cannot distinguish between acute and chronic infection alone
  • False positives may occur in autoimmune conditions
  • False negatives possible in early infection or immunocompromised patients
  • Requires confirmation with other HBV markers for complete diagnosis

Risks & Considerations

  • Minor bruising or swelling at the puncture site
  • Rare risk of infection or dizziness
  • No significant long-term risks

Interfering Factors

  • Hemolyzed or lipemic samples may affect results
  • Recent vaccination or immunoglobulin therapy
  • Cross-reactivity with other viral infections
  • Certain medications affecting immune response

Compare With Similar Tests

TestHepatitis B Core Antibody (Anti-HBc) Total Test
ComparisonHepatitis B Core Antibody (Anti-HBc) Total Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Anti-HBc Total Test?
It is a blood test that detects antibodies to the core antigen of the hepatitis B virus, indicating past or current infection.
Why is the Anti-HBc Total Test done?
To diagnose hepatitis B infection, determine immunity status, monitor chronic infection, and in screening programs for at-risk individuals.
What does a positive Anti-HBc Total result mean?
A positive result suggests exposure to hepatitis B virus, either in the past or currently. Further tests are needed to determine infection stage.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm and analyzed in a lab using chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) methods.
Is fasting required for this test?
No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
What is the cost of the Anti-HBc Total Test?
The test costs INR 1287 at DNA Labs India, with free home sample collection available across India.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available same day or within 24 hours. You can access them online via portal, email, or WhatsApp.
What are the risks of the test?
Risks are minimal, including minor bruising or swelling at the needle site. Serious complications are very rare.
Can this test detect a current hepatitis B infection?
Yes, but it cannot distinguish between acute and chronic infection alone. Other markers like HBsAg are needed for confirmation.
How accurate is the Anti-HBc Total Test?
The test is highly accurate, but false positives or negatives can occur. Clinical correlation with symptoms and other tests is important.
What other tests are needed for hepatitis B diagnosis?
Commonly, HBsAg, anti-HBs, HBeAg, anti-HBe, and HBV DNA tests are used alongside Anti-HBc for comprehensive diagnosis.
Where can I get this test done?
You can book the test at DNA Labs India with home collection or visit our centers in major cities across India. Online booking is available.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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Reference Laboratory Services

We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

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Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

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