Hepatitis B – serology

Serologic detection of Hepatitis B antibodies (HBsAg, anti-HBc IgM and/or total, anti-HBs)
Microbiology
Serology
○ Serum ○ Plasma
Other Information
○ Please ensure the appropriate testing is ordered (e.g. serologic markers that will reflect acute infection, chronic infection, immunity, needlestick/occupational exposure or prenatal screening) as per the Public Health Ontario Laboratory checklist

○ Please note any clinical indications (e.g. elevated liver enzymes) if acute infection is suspected
○ A first positive HBsAg result will be confirm in-house first before being sent to PHOL.
○ Serum: serum separator tube (clotted blood)
○ Plasma: EDTA-blood tube (lavender top)
○ Neonatal blood 1mL

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood
Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery
In-house
○ ~24 hours up to 3 days if the sample received on the weekend; donors samples will be processed in 24h
416-586-4800 extension 4515
NO
○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ HBsAg and anti-HBc total specimens can be stored and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at room temperature (20-25˚C) for up to 1 day and stored at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) if there is further delay. Other specimens should be stored and transported at refrigeration temperature.

○ The specimen will be referred to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing after a first positive HBsAg. Testing for transplant (living/cadaveric donors) will be performed in house.