Can a liver function panel of eight tests detect hepatitis B?

Sep 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhao Haiming

Introduction

Performing eight liver function tests alone cannot determine whether someone is a hepatitis B carrier or has a hepatitis B virus infection. A hepatitis B surface antigen test (commonly known as the "two pairs and a half" test) is required to confirm the presence of hepatitis B virus infection. In the hepatitis B two pairs and a half test, a positive result for the first item indicates that the person is a hepatitis B carrier, and at this point, greater attention should be paid to liver function. If elevated transaminase and bilirubin levels are detected, antiviral treatment will be necessary.

Basic indicators obtained through blood tests that reflect the liver's synthetic metabolism and secretory functions, mainly including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, total protein, and albumin. So, can a liver function eight-item test detect hepatitis B?

Can the liver function eight-item test detect hepatitis B?

An eight-item liver function test alone cannot determine whether someone is a hepatitis B carrier or has a hepatitis B virus infection. A specific "hepatitis B two pairs and a half" test is required to confirm the presence of hepatitis B virus infection. In the hepatitis B two pairs and a half test, a positive HBsAg result indicates that the person is a hepatitis B carrier, and at this point, close monitoring of liver function is necessary.

If elevated transaminases and bilirubin levels are found, antiviral treatment may be needed. If a hepatitis B carrier shows no abnormalities in liver function, they are considered a healthy carrier. Healthy hepatitis B carriers do not require any medication but should undergo regular liver check-ups. Additionally, it is recommended that healthy individuals receive the hepatitis B vaccine to enhance immunity against the hepatitis B virus.

Hepatitis B is a common infectious disease, more prevalent among adults and less common in children. The risks of hepatitis B include a higher likelihood of developing liver cirrhosis compared to non-infected individuals. Particularly when the condition is uncontrolled, with persistent positive hepatitis B virus status and repeated liver function abnormalities, liver cirrhosis may eventually develop over time. We hope this answer has been helpful to you. Wishing you good health and happiness!

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Can short-acting interferon be used again after having been administered for 4 years and then discontinued for 4 years?

If the underlying disease (e.g., chronic hepatitis B or C) is currently in an active phase, with abnormal liver function or elevated viral load, and no severe baseline conditions (e.g., cirrhosis) have occurred during the 4-year period off treatment, the patient may be eligible for re-treatment—provided a physician evaluates them as having good overall tolerance and no contraindications to interferon use (such as severe cardiac or renal disease, or psychiatric history). An individualized dosing regimen would then be required.