Anti-HBs Test: Positive and Negative Results Explained

We will e-mail you the prices and preparation instructions for the tests on your list.

What is this test?

Anti-HBs is the antibody that indicates immunity to hepatitis B. It is positive after hepatitis B vaccination or after a past infection that has resolved. It is also used to check whether immunity has developed after vaccination.

When is it requested?

Recovery from hepatitis B, acquired immunity

What does a positive Anti-HBs result mean?

A positive anti-HBs usually means you are immune to hepatitis B, either from vaccination or from a past infection you recovered from.

Immunity from hepatitis B vaccination
Past, resolved hepatitis B infection (anti-HBc is usually also positive)
Recent hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG)
Rarely positive together with HBsAg (needs specialist review)

What does a negative Anti-HBs result mean?

A negative anti-HBs means no measurable immunity to hepatitis B; you may not have been vaccinated or may not have responded adequately to the vaccine.

Never vaccinated, or vaccine series not completed
Antibody level has waned years after vaccination
Poor vaccine response (older age, smoking, obesity, weak immunity, kidney disease)
Ongoing hepatitis B infection (if HBsAg is positive)

My result is outside the reference range. What should I do?

The result is read with HBsAg and anti-HBc. If negative, your doctor can decide whether you need vaccination or a booster; post-vaccine checks are usually done 1–2 months after the last dose.

Reference ranges depend on the method, age and sex; always use the range printed on your report. This information is for general guidance only; consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Sample information

Sample type: Serum
Tube / container: Yellow-top tube
Sample volume: 1 mL

Preparation

Fasting not required

Testing and results

Method: ECLI
Run schedule: Daily
Turnaround time: 4 hours

Price and appointment

Add the test to your list to receive a price quote by e-mail, or call +90 850 640 07 30 / message us on WhatsApp (+90 537 301 22 14). You can have the test done at our branches or with our home blood collection service. Results can be viewed online with your Turkish ID number (or passport number for foreign nationals).

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a positive Anti-HBs mean?

A positive anti-HBs usually means you are immune to hepatitis B, either from vaccination or from a past infection you recovered from. Common causes: Immunity from hepatitis B vaccination; Past, resolved hepatitis B infection (anti-HBc is usually also positive); Recent hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG); Rarely positive together with HBsAg (needs specialist review).

What does a negative Anti-HBs mean?

A negative anti-HBs means no measurable immunity to hepatitis B; you may not have been vaccinated or may not have responded adequately to the vaccine. Common causes: Never vaccinated, or vaccine series not completed; Antibody level has waned years after vaccination; Poor vaccine response (older age, smoking, obesity, weak immunity, kidney disease); Ongoing hepatitis B infection (if HBsAg is positive).

Do I need to fast for the Anti-HBs test?

No fasting is required for the Anti-HBs test; you can give your sample at any time of day. If other tests that require fasting will be done at the same time, we recommend coming in fasting.

When will my Anti-HBs result be ready?

Turnaround time after the sample reaches the laboratory: 4 hours. Testing days: Daily. You can view your result online with your Turkish ID number (or passport number for foreign nationals).

What sample is used for the Anti-HBs test?

Specimen type: Serum. Tube/container: Yellow-top tube. Required volume: 1 mL.

Where can I have the Anti-HBs test done?

You can have it done at our Pendik, Bakırköy and Yalova branches or through our home blood collection service. For pricing and appointments, call us at 0850 640 07 30 or message our WhatsApp line (0537 301 22 14).

Anti-HBs