New England · Hepatitis Testing
Hepatitis Testing in Massachusetts
This page explains the hepatitis testing, what it measures, and how to order it. Hepatitis testing uses a blood sample to look for signs of viral hepatitis, which is inflammation of the liver caused by hepatitis viruses. It can show whether you have been exposed to or are currently infected with a hepatitis virus.
Lab requirements in Massachusetts
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Hepatitis Testing in MA. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Fasting is required for this test — follow the collection lab's instructions.
- Preparation
- Preparation is usually not needed, but follow the instructions provided by the laboratory or collection site. This may include fasting for a few hours or avoiding certain medications…
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
Hepatitis testing is a group of blood tests that check for hepatitis A, B, and C. These tests look for antibodies your immune system makes in response to the virus, viral proteins called antigens, or the virus's genetic material. Some tests show past or current infection, while others show whether you are immune from vaccination.
What it measures
- Hepatitis A antibody (IgM and IgG) — IgM suggests recent infection, while IgG suggests past infection or vaccination
- Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) — indicates current hepatitis B infection
- Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) — shows immunity from vaccination or past infection
- Hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) — indicates past or ongoing hepatitis B infection
- Hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV) — suggests exposure to hepatitis C virus
- Hepatitis C RNA (viral load) — detects active hepatitis C virus and measures its amount
What the test involves
The test involves a standard blood draw from a vein in your arm, usually taking only a few minutes. The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis, and no special preparation is typically required beyond what the collection site tells you.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order hepatitis testing if you have symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal pain, or if you have risk factors for exposure. It is also used for routine screening, before certain medical procedures, or to monitor a known infection.
Preparation
Preparation is usually not needed, but follow the instructions provided by the laboratory or collection site. This may include fasting for a few hours or avoiding certain medications, depending on which tests are ordered.
How results are reported
Results are reported as positive, negative, or sometimes as a numeric value with a reference range. Reference ranges and reporting formats vary by laboratory, so your results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of your health history.
Before you go
- Whether fasting or medication changes are needed before your blood draw
- Which specific hepatitis tests are included in your order
- How and when you will receive your results
Cities
Hepatitis Testing in Massachusetts communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.