Hepatitis Screening

Hepatitis screening tests look for viral infections that inflame the liver—most commonly hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV), with hepatitis A (HAV), and less often hepatitis D (HDV) or hepatitis E (HEV) in specific situations. Because many people have no symptoms, screening is the best way to learn whether you have a current infectionpast infection, or immunity from vaccination.

A proactive approach uses the HBV triple panelHBsAganti-HBs, and total anti-HBc—to profile hepatitis B status, and pairs HCV antibody with reflex RNA to confirm current hepatitis C. Add a hepatic function panel (AST/ALT, bilirubin, ALP/GGT, albumin) to assess liver injury, and order HAV/HDV/HEV selectively. Screening supports early detectionrisk stratification, and monitoring, but it does not replace a clinician’s exam, imaging, or urgent care for severe symptoms.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Often silent: normal daily activities with no symptoms

  • If present: fatigue, low appetite, nausea, right-upper-abdominal discomfort, jaundice, dark urine, pale stools

  • Risk & exposure: blood/body-fluid exposure, shared needles; dialysis; unregulated tattoos/piercings; birth to an infected parent; household/sexual exposure; incarceration; travel to endemic regions; under-immunization

  • Medication & alcohol: alcohol or liver-affecting drugs/supplements can worsen injury

  • Pregnancy: routine HBV screening; some programs include HCV screening during pregnancy

  • Seek urgent care now: confusion, severe abdominal swelling/pain, vomiting blood or black stools, intense jaundice with fever, or trouble breathing

Symptoms and risks require evaluation by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Detect current infection and document immunity (HBV triple panel; HCV Ab with reflex RNA)

  • Differentiate phases (acute vs. chronic) using core antibodies and viral load

  • Guide next steps by pairing infection status with liver chemistries and safety labs

What testing cannot do

  • Diagnose cirrhosis or liver cancer on blood tests alone—imaging/elastography (and sometimes biopsy) may be needed

  • Replace clinician judgment on repeat-testing windows after exposure or public-health reporting

  • Provide treatment or dosing advice—review results with your clinician

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Hepatitis B (HBV) — Triple Panel

    • HBsAg (surface antigen): current infection

    • Anti-HBs (HBsAb): immunity from vaccination or recovery

    • Total anti-HBc (core Ab): past or current infectionIgM anti-HBc supports acute infection

    • HBV DNA (PCR): viral load to confirm activity (clinician-directed)

  • Hepatitis C (HCV)

    • HCV Antibody: screening; a reactive result requires HCV RNA to confirm current infection

    • HCV RNA (quantitative PCR): confirms active infection and measures viral load

  • Hepatitis A (HAV)

    • HAV IgM: acute/recent infection

    • Total anti-HAV (IgG ± IgM): immunity from past infection or vaccination

  • Hepatitis D (HDV) & E (HEV)

    • HDV Ab/RNA: only if HBsAg is positive

    • HEV IgM/IgG: consider with compatible illness, travel, or selected pregnancy contexts

  • Liver & safety context

    • AST/ALT, ALP/GGT, bilirubin, albuminPT/INRplateletscreatinine/sodium to gauge injury, function, and overall risk

Quick Build Guide

Clinical goal Start with Add if needed
Universal adult screen HBV triple panel • HCV Ab with reflex RNA Hepatic function panel
Prenatal/early pregnancy HBsAg (with triple panel if status unknown) HCV Ab→RNA per program; liver panel
After exposure (blood/body fluids) HBV triple • HCV Ab→RNA (timed per clinician) Early HCV RNA if very recent; liver panel
Abnormal liver enzymes HBV triple • HCV Ab→RNA HAV IgM (acute), HEV IgM (travel/pregnancy), HDV if HBsAg+
Documenting immunity Anti-HBs (± total anti-HAV) Full HBV triple if prior status unclear
Immunocompromised/dialysis HBV triple • HCV Ab→RNA • liver panel HBV DNA/HCV RNA as directed

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Pick your pathway: choose HBV triple panel and HCV Ab with reflex RNA for most adults.

  2. Provide a blood sample: no fasting required unless lipids are added.

  3. Understand reflex testing: if HCV Ab is reactive, the lab automatically runs RNA on the same sample when available.

  4. Mind the window period: early after exposure, antibodies may be negative—RNA/DNA tests can detect infection earlier.

  5. Review results securely: discuss with your clinician; plan any repeat testing or imaging.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • HBV patterns

    • HBsAg positive: current infection

    • Anti-HBs positive, anti-HBc negative: vaccine immunity

    • Anti-HBc positive (HBsAg negative): past infection; “isolated core Ab” may need context or follow-up

    • HBc IgM positive: acute infection pattern

  • HCV patterns

    • HCV Ab reactive + RNA detected: current infection

    • HCV Ab reactive + RNA not detected: past/resolved infection (or false-positive); repeat if timing is uncertain

    • High suspicion but Ab negative: consider HCV RNA early after exposure

  • HAV/HEV

    • IgM positive: recent/acute infection; IgG/total anti-HAV indicates immunity

  • Liver tests

    • ALT/AST, bilirubin elevated: show liver injuryINR/albumin reflect synthetic function
      Always interpret results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Most adults: HBV triple panel + HCV Ab with reflex RNA

  • Immunity check: Anti-HBs (± total anti-HAV); add full HBV triple if history is unclear

  • Acute symptoms/known exposure: HAV IgMHBc IgMHBsAgHCV RNA, plus a hepatic panel and PT/INR

  • HBsAg-positive follow-up: HBV DNAHBeAg/anti-HBe, and HDV testing as indicated

FAQs

Do I need to fast?
No. These are standard blood tests; fast only if your order includes lipids.

Will vaccination affect my results?
Yes—anti-HBs becomes positive after HBV vaccination. Vaccines do not make HBsAg or HCV RNA positive.

What does “reflex RNA” mean for HCV?
If your HCV antibody is reactive, the lab automatically runs RNA to confirm current infection.

How soon after exposure should I test?
Antibody tests can be negative earlyRNA/DNA tests detect infection sooner. Your clinician may schedule repeat testing.

Do normal liver enzymes rule out hepatitis?
No. Enzymes can be normal at times. That’s why screening matters even without symptoms.

If I’m HBsAg positive, what’s next?
Your clinician may order HBV DNA and HBeAg/anti-HBe to assess activity and consider HDV testing.

Can I order HAV screening?
Yes—total anti-HAV documents immunity; HAV IgM checks for acute infection.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Liver & Gallbladder Tests Hub

  • Hepatitis Tests • Hepatic Function Tests • Cirrhosis Tests • Fatty Liver (Metabolic) • Autoimmune Liver Disease • All Infectious Disease Tests

  • Key Tests: HBsAg • Anti-HBs (HBsAb) • Total anti-HBc • HBc IgM • HBeAg/anti-HBe • HBV DNA (quantitative PCR) • HCV Antibody • HCV RNA (quantitative PCR) • HAV IgM • Total anti-HAV • HDV Ab/RNA (HBsAg-positive only) • HEV IgM/IgG • Hepatic Function Panel • PT/INR • Platelets/CBC

References

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — Recommendations for universal adult hepatitis B screening and testing.
  • U.S. Preventive Services Task Force — Screening for Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Adults.
  • U.S. Preventive Services Task Force — Screening for Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Adolescents and Adults at Increased Risk.
  • American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases — HBV and HCV guidance documents.
  • World Health Organization — Viral hepatitis testing guidelines.
  • Clinical reviews on interpretation of hepatitis serologies and reflex RNA/DNA testing.

Available Tests & Panels

Your Hepatitis Screening Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Use filters to build the right package—HBV triple panelHCV antibody with reflex to RNA, selective HAV/HDV/HEV testing, and a hepatic function panel for injury context. Review timing and results with your clinician to plan any repeats, imaging, or follow-up.

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Blood
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

The General Hepatitis Panel Test screens for multiple hepatitis infections in one order. It includes Hepatitis A Antibody Total, Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Qualitative, Hepatitis B Surface Antigen with Reflex to Confirmation, Hepatitis B Core Antibody Total, and Hepatitis C Antibody with Reflex to RNA PCR. Doctors use this panel to detect past exposure, confirm active or chronic infection, guide treatment, and support liver health monitoring.

Also Known As: Hepatitis Panel General

The Hepatitis A Antibody Total Test is a qualitative test that detects antibodies to hepatitis A virus (HAV) and reports results as Reactive or Non-Reactive. It does not distinguish between IgM and IgG antibodies. A reactive result may indicate past infection or immunity from vaccination, while a non-reactive result suggests no prior exposure. Doctors use this test to assess immune status, guide vaccination decisions, and evaluate risk of hepatitis A infection.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Hep A Ab Total Test, HAV Ab Total Test, Hep A Test, Hepatitis A Test

Blood
Blood Draw

The Hepatitis A IgM Antibody Test is a qualitative blood test that detects IgM antibodies to the hepatitis A virus (HAV) and reports results as Reactive or Non-Reactive. A reactive result usually indicates a recent or current hepatitis A infection, while a non-reactive result means no active infection. Doctors use this test to confirm acute hepatitis A in patients with symptoms like jaundice, nausea, fatigue, or abdominal pain and to guide timely treatment and prevention.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Hep A IgM test, HAV IgM Ab Test

The Hepatitis B Core IgM Antibody Test is a qualitative test that detects IgM antibodies to the hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc IgM) and reports results as Reactive or Non-Reactive. A reactive result indicates a recent or acute hepatitis B infection, while a non-reactive result suggests no active infection. Doctors order this test to confirm acute hepatitis B in patients with symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, fever, or abdominal pain and to guide treatment and monitoring.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: HBcAb IgM Test, HBc IgM Test, Hep B Core IgM Test

The Hepatitis B Core Antibody Total Test is a qualitative blood test that detects antibodies to the hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) and reports results as Reactive or Non-Reactive. A reactive result may indicate past or ongoing infection, while a non-reactive result suggests no exposure. This test does not distinguish between IgM and IgG antibodies. Doctors use it to evaluate hepatitis B exposure, confirm infection history, and assess overall immune response.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: HBcAb Total Test, HBc Total Test, Hep B Core Ab Total Test

The Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Qualitative Test detects anti-HBs antibodies to the hepatitis B surface antigen and reports results as Reactive or Non-Reactive. A reactive result indicates past exposure, either from hepatitis B infection or prior vaccination, while a non-reactive result suggests no detectable exposure. Doctors use this test to confirm hepatitis B exposure history, evaluate vaccine response, and guide further preventive or diagnostic decisions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: HBsAb Ql Test, Hep B Surface Ab Qualitative Test, HBs Ab Qual Test

The Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Quantitative Test measures the exact level of anti-HBs antibodies in blood to determine past exposure and whether protective immunity has developed from infection or vaccination. A higher antibody level generally indicates adequate immune response, while a low level suggests limited or no protection. Doctors use this test to confirm vaccine effectiveness, assess immune status, and support hepatitis B screening or preventive care.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: HBsAb Qn Test, Hepatitis B Titer Test

The Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test with Reflex to Confirmation screens for hepatitis B surface antigen in blood and, if reactive, automatically performs confirmatory testing. A reactive confirmed result indicates an active hepatitis B infection, while a non-reactive result shows no infection. Doctors use this test to diagnose acute or chronic hepatitis B, investigate abnormal liver tests, and guide treatment, monitoring, and infection control decisions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: HBsAg Test, Hep B Surface Ag Test, HBs Antigen Test, Hep B Test

The Hepatitis Be Antibody (anti-HBe) Test is a qualitative blood test that detects antibodies to the hepatitis B e antigen and reports results as Reactive or Non-Reactive. A reactive result often indicates lower infectivity and a transition toward recovery or inactive disease, while a non-reactive result suggests no antibodies were detected. Doctors use this test to monitor hepatitis B infection stage, evaluate treatment response, and support long-term disease management.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: HBeAb Test, Hep B e Ab Test, HBe Antibody Test

The Hepatitis Be Antigen (HBeAg) Test is a qualitative blood test that detects the presence of hepatitis B e antigen and reports results as Reactive or Non-Reactive. A reactive result suggests active viral replication and high infectivity, while a non-reactive result indicates no HBeAg detected. Doctors use this test to evaluate hepatitis B disease stage, monitor treatment effectiveness, and assess risk of transmission, supporting long-term infection management.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Hepatitis C Antibody with HCV RNA Quantitative PCR test is a comprehensive diagnostic test used to detect and confirm the presence of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the blood. It combines the initial screening for HCV antibodies with a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test to measure the viral load.
Panel Contains Test:  Anti HCV Test, HCV Antibody Test, Hep C Antibody Test

 The Hepatitis C Antibody & Liver Function Panel is a comprehensive diagnostic tool used to detect the presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies and assess liver function. This panel includes the Hepatitis C Antibody with Reflex to Quantitative HCV RNA PCR test, along with a series of liver function tests: Albumin, Albumin/Globulin Ratio, Alkaline Phosphatase, Alanine Transaminase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Bilirubin Direct, Bilirubin Indirect, Bilirubin Total, Globulin, and Protein Total. This panel is crucial for diagnosing HCV infection and evaluating the liver's health and functionality.
Blood
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

Blood
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

The Hepatitis C Viral RNA Quantitative Test measures the amount of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in blood to determine viral load. This test confirms active infection, evaluates disease severity, and monitors response to antiviral therapy. High viral load indicates significant viral replication, while lower or undetectable levels suggest effective treatment or controlled infection. Doctors use this test to guide therapy, track progress, and manage long-term liver health.

Also Known As: HCV RNA Test, Hepatitis C Viral Load Test, HCV PCR Test

The Acetylcholine Receptor Binding Antibody Test detects antibodies targeting acetylcholine receptors, a hallmark of myasthenia gravis. This autoimmune disorder affects nerve-to-muscle communication, causing weakness and fatigue. The test helps confirm diagnosis, differentiate from other neuromuscular diseases, and guide treatment. Elevated antibody levels support early detection and ongoing management of myasthenia gravis.

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Blood Draw

The Acetylcholine Receptor Blocking Antibody Test evaluates autoantibodies that block acetylcholine receptors, impairing nerve-to-muscle signaling. It is commonly ordered in the workup of suspected myasthenia gravis, where these antibodies contribute to muscle fatigue and weakness. This test, often performed with AChR binding and modulating antibody assays, provides valuable insight into autoimmune mechanisms affecting neuromuscular transmission.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Acetylcholine Receptor Modulating Antibody Test measures autoantibodies that cause loss or alteration of acetylcholine receptors on muscle cells, impairing nerve transmission. Elevated levels are commonly linked to myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disorder causing muscle weakness. This test aids in identifying immune-mediated neuromuscular disease and helps evaluate disease severity.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Actin Smooth Muscle IgG Antibody Test detects autoantibodies against smooth muscle actin, often linked to autoimmune hepatitis and chronic liver disease. Elevated levels may indicate liver inflammation, cirrhosis, or other autoimmune conditions. Doctors use this blood test with liver panels and additional antibody tests to aid in diagnosis, monitor disease progression, and guide treatment decisions for patients with suspected autoimmune liver disorders.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Actin IgG Antibody Test

The Ammonia Plasma Test measures ammonia levels in blood to evaluate liver function and metabolic health. Elevated ammonia may result from liver disease, cirrhosis, Reye’s syndrome, or urea cycle disorders, causing confusion or altered mental status. Doctors order this test for patients with unexplained behavioral changes, lethargy, or suspected hepatic encephalopathy. Results provide key insight into liver function, metabolic disorders, and treatment monitoring.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: NH3 Test, NH3 Plasma Test, Ammonia Blood Test

The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern Test detects antinuclear antibodies in blood to evaluate autoimmune activity. If positive, further testing identifies antibody concentration (titer) and fluorescence pattern, helping diagnose conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, rash, or swelling and to guide treatment for autoimmune and connective tissue disorders.

Also Known As: ANA Test, Antinuclear Antibody Screen Test

The ANA IFA Panel Comprehensive screens for autoimmune disorders by detecting antinuclear antibodies and specific markers including dsDNA, Sm, Sm/RNP, Scl-70, and Sjögren’s SS-A/SS-B. Doctors order this panel for patients with joint pain, rash, fatigue, or suspected lupus, scleroderma, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Results provide critical insight into autoimmune activity, helping confirm diagnosis, monitor disease progression, and guide treatment decisions.

Also Known As: Comprehensive ANA Panel

The Complement Component C3c Test measures levels of C3c, a protein involved in the immune complement system. Abnormal results may indicate autoimmune disorders, recurrent infections, or kidney disease linked to immune activity. Doctors use this blood test to evaluate complement activation, diagnose immune-related conditions, and monitor disease progression or treatment effectiveness in patients with suspected lupus, glomerulonephritis, or other immune disorders.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: C3 Test, Complement C3 Test, Complement Test

The Complement Total CH50 Test measures overall activity of the complement system, a key part of the immune response that helps fight infections and regulate inflammation. Abnormal results may indicate autoimmune diseases such as lupus, complement deficiencies, or immune complex disorders. Doctors use this blood test to evaluate immune function, investigate recurrent infections, and monitor treatment in patients with suspected immune or autoimmune conditions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Total Complement Test, Total Complement Activity Test

According to the CDC, about 4.4 million Americans are currently infected with Hepatitis B or C. Many of them are not even aware that they have the infection. These numbers are seriously high, so it's important to educate yourself about hepatitis in all its forms and how to take preventative measures against infection.

Thankfully, science has been able to identify the disease and develop effective hepatitis testing methods. As a result, it is easier than ever to get tested for all forms of hepatitis and get on the fast track to treatment and recovery.

To learn more about hepatitis and how you can get tested, read this guide.

What Is Hepatitis A, B & C?

Hepatitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the liver. This condition can come from either an autoimmune disorder or a viral infection. Hepatitis comes in many forms and comes from many different causes, so staying vigilant with your health is key.

Hepatitis can be dangerous because the liver performs many vital functions for our body. It helps filter our blood to remove toxins and it produces bile for proper digestion. Without our liver, we could not:

  • Digest what we consume
  • Filter toxins from our body
  • Store and break down essential vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates
  • Synthesize clotting factors or essential blood proteins

Your liver is not an organ you can sacrifice when it goes bad. Unlike a gallbladder, we cannot live without a functioning liver. Hepatitis, therefore, can be life-threatening.

Types of Hepatitis

There are several different forms of hepatitis, including A, B, C, D, and E. The most common forms are A, B, and C. Each form causes hepatitis but comes from a different virus.

Hepatitis A and E are usually acute, short-term conditions. Hepatitis B, C, and D typically become long-term, chronic illnesses.

Hepatitis A comes from consuming food or water that HAV-infected feces has contaminated. This usually occurs when the feces has come from someone infected with HAV. Hepatitis E is similar yet much rarer in the US because it typically occurs in countries with poor sanitation.

Hepatitis B comes from contact with HBV-infected fluids such as vaginal fluid, semen, or blood from someone with hepatitis B. Hepatitis D is very rare as it can only occur in conjunction with hepatitis B—it depends on HBV to survive.

Hepatitis C is carried by HCV, and it is similar to B as it is also transmitted through contact with infected fluids.

If you are living in the United States, you should mainly worry about hepatitis A, B, and C.

Causes and Risk Factors for Hepatitis A, B, and C.

When it comes to risk factors for hepatitis, doctors will warn against certain lifestyle choices. Because the hepatitis-causing viruses transfer through bodily fluids and waste, coming in close contact with or sharing certain devices with infected people puts you at risk.

For example, you could contract HBV or HCV if you have had a sexual interaction with an infected person. Therefore, if you have multiple or new sex partners, you are at higher risk of infection.

HBV and HCV are also commonly transferred through unsanitary drug injection practices. Sharing a needle with an infected person could put you at risk of infection. Sharing razors, too, could cause infection if razors have come in contact with infected blood.

The risks of developing hepatitis generally have nothing to do with whether you are biologically more susceptible to it. Both men and women are equally vulnerable, and no pre-existing conditions cause higher rates of infection.

Certain conditions that physicians call hepatitis, however, can link to your biological makeup. An autoimmune disorder can inflame your liver. This occurs when your immune system believes your liver is a foreign invader and attacks it.

A form of hepatitis, also called alcoholic hepatitis, can come from excessive alcohol and drug use. Introducing your liver to excessive toxins over a period of time can lead to serious liver damage and inflammation.

Signs and Symptoms of Hepatitis A, B, and C?

Hepatitis A is an acute, short-term illness. You will most likely experience signs and symptoms right away, such as sudden nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and pain around the liver. Get tested right away if you also experience the signs below.

Hepatitis B and C are long-term illnesses that may not show signs right away. Your symptoms will worsen over time. You could experience:

  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Fatigue
  • Pale stool
  • Dark urine
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Pain in the abdomen
  • Signs of jaundice, like yellow eyes and skin

These signs are all related to liver dysfunction and might not necessarily be caused by hepatitis. That's why it is so important to get tested immediately to determine the cause.

How Is Hepatitis A, B, and C Diagnosed?

If you go to a doctor for a hepatitis B screening or a hepatitis C screening, they will first ask about your medical history and lifestyle. Then, they will perform a physical hepatitis screening exam.

They will look for risk factors in your lifestyle and check for yellowed eyes and skin or discomfort around the liver. Whether the preliminary exam shows signs or not, a doctor will likely run further tests to determine your condition.

You can get a hepatitis B test and a hepatitis C test if your doctor feels your condition is long-term rather than acute. These tests can find antibodies in your blood that indicate you are fighting off the infection. 

Hepatitis Testing for A, B, and C

Physicians can perform a number and combination of tests to diagnose your condition. Blood tests and liver function tests can determine whether your health condition is caused by hepatitis and further diagnose you with a type. Ultrasounds and liver biopsies are also options, but more invasive and generally unnecessary for diagnosis.

Even without the hassle of a doctor's appointment and extra exams, you can get results immediately with a blood test from Ulta Lab Tests. If you are concerned at all that you have contracted hepatitis, you can buy a highly accurate and reliable blood test to be performed and analyzed in private. You can take control of your health and move forward with an informed decision.

Take Control of Your Health Today

Order your hepatitis lab tests today with Ulta Lab Tests. Here are a few great things to love about our service:

- You'll get secure and confidential results
- You don't need health insurance
- You don't need a physician's referral
- You'll get affordable pricing
- We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Results within 24-48 hours for most tests

Take control of your health today with Ulta Lab Tests.