How can we Diagnose Hepatitis B?
A series of blood tests will confirm the diagnosis of hepatitis B.
Laboratory diagnosis of hepatitis B infection is based on the detection of the hepatitis B surface antigen HBsAg. A positive test for the HBsAg indicates that the person has an active infection, either acute or chronic.
Blood tests can also be used to distinguish between acute and chronic infections.
In case of chronic hepatitis B the doctor advises the following tests to look for liver damage-
- Serum albumin level
- Liver function tests
- Prothrombin time
Sometimes a liver biopsy may be needed for assessment.
