Can a complete set of biochemical tests detect hepatitis B small three positives?
May 30, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, a complete biochemical panel cannot detect "small three positives" (a pattern of hepatitis B virus markers). The complete biochemical panel includes tests for liver function, blood lipids, fasting blood glucose, kidney function, uric acid, etc. Liver function indicators typically include total protein, albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, indirect bilirubin, and transaminases. A complete biochemical panel generally cannot identify the "small three positives."
In general, a complete biochemical panel cannot detect "three positive" hepatitis B (small three positives). The details are as follows:
A complete biochemical panel includes tests for liver function, blood lipids, fasting blood glucose, kidney function, uric acid, etc. Liver function tests typically measure total protein, albumin, globulin, albumin-to-globulin ratio, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, indirect bilirubin, and transaminases. "Small three positives" refers to the immunological markers of hepatitis B virus in patients with chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis B carriers—specifically, the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B e-antibody (HBeAb), and hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb). These markers are usually identified through a "two pairs and a half" (hepatitis B panel) or six-item hepatitis B test. Since the complete biochemical panel does not include testing for HBsAg, HBeAb, or HBcAb, it cannot detect "small three positives."
It is important to note that being "small three positives" does not necessarily indicate improvement in the patient's condition. Patients should seek timely medical consultation and actively receive treatment under the guidance of a physician. Additionally, adequate rest and a light, healthy diet are recommended.
