Markers and results

Interpretation
  • HBsAg negative
  • Anti-HBc negative
  • Anti-HBs negative

Susceptible
  • HBsAg negative
  • Anti-HBc positive
  • Anti-HBs positive

Immune from natural infection
  • HBsAg negative
  • Anti-HBc negative
  • Anti-HBs positive

Immune from vaccination
  • HBsAg positive
  • Anti-HBc positive
  • IgM anti-HBc positive
  • Anti-HBs negative

Acute infection
  • HBsAg positive
  • Anti-HBc positive
  • IgM anti-HBc negative
  • Anti-HBs negative

Chronic infection
  • HBsAg negative
  • Anti-HBc positive
  • Anti-HBs negative

Inconclusive

Source: Adapted from recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices52

Last updated: 
5 June 2018
Last reviewed: 
5 June 2018

Definitions

HBsAg
hepatitis B surface antigen
anti-HBc
antibody to hepatitis B core antigen