Anti Hbcab-Total

You should get an anti-HBc total test before starting chemotherapy, rituximab, steroids, or other immunosuppressive therapy, to check the risk of hepatitis B reactivation. It is also recommended for unexplained liver disease, possible hepatitis B exposure, before organ or blood donation, for people with HIV or hepatitis C, and to distinguish past infection from vaccination.

No special preparation or fasting is required for an anti-HBc total test. Inform your doctor about your hepatitis B vaccination history, any past hepatitis B infection, and recent blood transfusion or IVIG, as these can affect results. Also mention any planned chemotherapy or immunosuppressive treatment.

No, fasting is not required for an anti-HBc total test. You can eat and drink normally before giving your sample, and the test can be done at any time of day. Inform your doctor about any recent blood transfusion or IVIG, as these may affect interpretation of the results.