Hepatitis A Immunity (IgG)
The Hepatitis A Immunity (IgG) test measures protective antibodies against hepatitis A virus to determine if an individual has immunity from previous infection or vaccination.
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What this test measures
This test detects the presence of Hepatitis A specific IgG antibodies, which indicate either previous vaccination or past infection with the hepatitis A virus (HAV). IgG antibodies are produced by the immune system after IgM antibodies and increase in number over several months, remaining present in the body for life.
HAV IgG antibodies produced in response to vaccination and/or HAV infection persist for life and protect against reinfection. An IgG-positive and IgM-negative result typically suggests a person is immune to hepatitis A. Testing is commonly used to verify immunity before travel to areas with higher hepatitis A risk or to assess vaccine response.
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals planning travel to countries with intermediate or high rates of hepatitis A infection who need to verify their immunity status before departure.
- Healthcare workers who require documentation of immunity as part of occupational health requirements and infection control protocols.
- People working in food service industries who may need to demonstrate immunity to hepatitis A as part of employment health screenings.
- Adults with unknown vaccination history who want to confirm their immunity status without receiving unnecessary additional vaccinations.
- Individuals who received the hepatitis A vaccine series and wish to verify that they developed protective antibodies in response to immunization.
- People with chronic liver conditions who are at higher risk for severe hepatitis A complications and need to ensure they are protected.
- Close contacts of individuals with confirmed hepatitis A infection who need to assess their risk and determine if post-exposure prophylaxis is necessary.
What to expect
Preparation
No fasting is required for this test. Individuals taking high-dose biotin supplements should discontinue them at least 72 hours before testing, as biotin may interfere with test results.
Sample Type
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in the arm using a standard needle and collection tube.
Collection
The blood draw typically takes only a few minutes and is performed at any participating lab location with no doctor visit required.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days and will be securely delivered through the patient portal.
Understanding your results
A reactive (positive) result indicates either vaccination, past infection, or current infection, while a non-reactive result indicates a lack of immunity to Hepatitis A infection. Results are typically reported as reactive or non-reactive, with some laboratories providing quantitative values.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | Non-reactive: < 20 IU/L; Reactive: ≥ 20 IU/L | Values of 20 IU/L or higher indicate protective immunity |
| All individuals | Alternative reporting: Non-reactive < 1.0 COI; Reactive ≥ 1.0 COI | Some laboratories report results as a cutoff index (COI) where 1.0 COI corresponds to approximately 25.4 IU/L |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a “Low” result mean?
A negative result indicates the absence of HAV-specific antibodies, implying no past exposure or immunity to HAV infection. A non-reactive total anti-HAV indicates no detectable antibodies, meaning the person is susceptible to HAV and may benefit from vaccination if at risk. Individuals with negative results should consider hepatitis A vaccination, especially if they have risk factors such as travel to endemic areas or occupational exposure.
What does a “High” result mean?
A positive IgG result typically indicates that an individual has had a previous hepatitis A infection or has received a hepatitis A vaccination, suggesting immunity to hepatitis A. IgG antibodies produced in response to vaccination or infection persist for life and protect against reinfection. In most cases, a positive result means the individual is protected against future hepatitis A infection and does not require vaccination.
Privacy & confidentiality
All hepatitis A immunity test results are confidential and protected under HIPAA regulations. Results are delivered securely through your patient portal and are not shared with your primary care physician or added to insurance records unless you specifically request it. No doctor visit required to order this test.
Frequently asked questions
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This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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