What does a positive hepatitis B virus antibody test result mean?

Generally speaking, hepatitis B refers to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection. A positive result for Hepatitis B virus antibodies indicates that the body has developed immunity against the Hepatitis B virus. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Hepatitis B virus antibodies mainly include Hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb), Hepatitis B e antibody (HBeAb), and Hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb). Among these, a positive Hepatitis B surface antibody result is a favorable outcome, indicating that the body has either previously been infected with the Hepatitis B virus and successfully cleared it, or has developed protective antibodies after receiving the Hepatitis B vaccine. This antibody can bind to the Hepatitis B surface antigen, preventing the virus from entering liver cells, thus protecting the body from subsequent Hepatitis B virus infection.

A positive Hepatitis B e antibody result typically appears during the recovery phase of Hepatitis B virus infection, indicating reduced viral replication activity. A positive Hepatitis B core antibody result indicates a past Hepatitis B virus infection. This antibody may remain positive for a long time, even for life.

In daily life, to prevent Hepatitis B virus infection, it is important to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine in a timely manner and avoid high-risk behaviors, such as unprotected sexual activity and using medical instruments or syringes that have not been strictly sterilized.