Resources

Hepatitis B Core Antibody, Total

Test Code
HBCT


Alias/See Also
HBcAb Total
Performed at Sonora Quest Laboratory, test code 9236
HBcAb Total includes IgM; cannot perform studies for IgG alone
Performed at WyMCC for WMC, TCH and PCMH
Performed at NCMC for OCH


CPT Codes
86704

Preferred Specimen
SST


Instructions
For facilities sending to Sonora Quest Laboratories, see link below for specimen details, methodology, setup schedule and reference ranges.


Transport Temperature
For facilities not located in Arizona, transport to SQL recommended as Frozen


Clinical Significance
IgM & IgG (total) Hepatitis B Core Antibodies appear at the onset of symptoms in acute hepatitis B and persist for life. The presence of anti-HBc indicates previous or ongoing infection with hepatitis B virus in an undefined time frame. Hep B Core IgM positivity indicates recent infection with hepatitis B virus (<6 mos).

HBV vaccination leads to development of HBs Ab but not to HBc Ab. Anti-Hbc IgG reactivity can persist for years after illness, and may even outlast anti-HBS.


Additional Information
Hepatitis B Surface Antibody, Qualitative
Hepatitis B Core Antibody, Total


The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.