Hepatitis B Core Antibody

Message

Performing Lab: Central Lab

Test Code

0185

Alias/See Also

Sunquest: HBC; Anti-HBc; HBcAb

CPT Codes
86704

Preferred Specimen

0.5 mL Serum Separator (tall gold-top) tube

Minimum Volume

0.3 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

Serum separator (small gold-top)

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated

Specimen Stability

Refrigerated: 7 days

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Gross hemolysis

Methodology
Chemiluminescence Immunoassay

Setup Schedule

Monday - Friday

Report Available

2 Business Days

Reference Range

Negative (Non-reactive)

Clinical Significance

This assay is used to detect the total antibody to the core component of the Hepatitis B virus (anti-HBc). This assay detects the total core antibody (both IgG and IgM), but cannot distinguish between the two. It can be used as an aid in the diagnosis of individuals with either acute or chronic hepatitis B virus and is typically used in conjunction with other HBV serological markers. The HBc antibody may even outlast Hepatitis B surface antibody and occasionally may be the only marker of past infection to Hepatitis B.

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.