Hepatitis B Surface Antibody, Quantitative

Our Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (anti-HBs) quantitative test measures the amount of hepatitis B surface antibodies in your blood. These antibodies are produced either naturally in response to a hepatitis B infection or artificially after vaccination against hepatitis B. Here are some reasons one might consider or be advised to get a Hepatitis B Surface Antibody quantitative test:

1. Travel, Immigration, or School Enrollment Requirements: Sometimes, for travel, immigration, or school enrollment purposes, there might be a requirement to show quantitative evidence of immunity to hepatitis B.
   
2. Post-Vaccination Immunity Check: After receiving the hepatitis B vaccine series, you might want to confirm if your body has produced a protective level of antibodies. The quantitative test can help determine if you have achieved immunity.
3. Healthcare Workers and Other At-risk Professionals: People who are at an increased risk of exposure to hepatitis B, such as healthcare workers, laboratory technicians, or emergency responders, often get tested to confirm immunity.
4. Evaluation Before Revaccination: If an initial anti-HBs test shows a low or non-protective level of antibodies, you might be given an additional vaccine dose. A quantitative test can then help evaluate if the booster was effective.
5. Chronic Hepatitis B Monitoring: In individuals with chronic hepatitis B, monitoring antibody levels alongside other markers can provide insights into the stage and activity of the disease.
6. Post-Exposure: If you believe you've been exposed to hepatitis B (e.g., needlestick injury or sexual contact with an infected person), this test, in conjunction with other hepatitis B markers, can help determine your immunity status and whether post-exposure prophylaxis is required.
7. Prior Infection: If you had hepatitis B in the past and cleared the infection, the quantitative test can confirm the presence and level of antibodies.
8. Hemodialysis Patients: Patients on hemodialysis are at a higher risk of hepatitis B exposure. They often receive the hepatitis B vaccine and may be tested periodically to ensure they maintain protective antibody levels.