What does a positive hepatitis B virus core antibody (anti-HBc) test result mean?
Apr 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, hepatitis B virus refers to the hepatitis B virus (HBV). A positive result for hepatitis B virus C antibody indicates a positive hepatitis B core antibody, which generally suggests that the patient is currently in the infection phase of hepatitis B virus or has been previously infected with hepatitis B virus. It is important to maintain good lifestyle habits and avoid excessive fatigue, staying up late, alcohol consumption, and other unhealthy behaviors in order to prevent additional strain on the liver.
Generally, the term "hepatitis B virus" refers to the Hepatitis B virus. A positive result for Hepatitis B virus core antibody (anti-HBc) usually indicates that a patient is currently in the infection phase of Hepatitis B virus or has been previously infected with the virus. Detailed analysis is as follows:
A positive anti-HBc result may mean that the Hepatitis B virus exists in the patient's body, or that the virus has already been cleared but left antibody traces. However, this single indicator alone cannot determine whether the patient is still carrying the virus or is contagious. It is necessary to combine other indicators, such as Hepatitis B virus DNA, liver function, surface antigen (HBsAg), e antigen (HBeAg), and e antibody (anti-HBe), for comprehensive analysis. If Hepatitis B virus DNA is negative, the patient is generally considered non-carrier and requires no treatment; if positive, antiviral therapy may be needed.
Individuals who have not been infected with Hepatitis B virus should receive the Hepatitis B vaccine as early as possible to stimulate the body to produce a specific immune response and enhance resistance. At the same time, it is important to maintain good lifestyle habits, avoid excessive fatigue, staying up late, alcohol consumption, and other unhealthy behaviors to prevent additional strain on the liver.
