What are the risks associated with a positive hepatitis B core antibody?

May 08, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

A positive hepatitis B core antibody test may indicate infection. If not treated in a timely manner, it may lead to decreased appetite, increased psychological burden, and even reduced quality of life, thereby increasing the risk of transmission. Some patients may also experience liver damage, resulting in impaired liver function and liver cells. Therefore, timely treatment is necessary to reduce the associated risks.

Generally speaking, hepatitis B core antibody refers to the antibody against hepatitis B virus core antigen. The main risks associated with a positive hepatitis B core antibody result include affecting appetite, psychological burden, reduced quality of life, transmission risk, and liver damage. If any discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Affecting Appetite

If the hepatitis B virus core antibody is positive, accompanied by a positive hepatitis B surface antigen, it indicates that the patient is currently infected with the hepatitis B virus. This may affect appetite, leading to loss of appetite and even symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. It is recommended to relieve these symptoms by improving dietary habits, with a preference for light and easily digestible foods.

2. Psychological Burden

Once a patient is confirmed to have contracted hepatitis B virus, it may increase psychological stress, affect mood, and lead to excessive anxiety or fear. It is recommended to develop a proper understanding of the disease and relieve stress through activities such as reading books or listening to music.

3. Reduced Quality of Life

If the positive hepatitis B core antibody result is associated with infection, it may impact the patient's quality of life, including social interactions and work. Therefore, active intervention is recommended to reduce the viral load in the body, after which normal life can resume following recovery.

4. Transmission Risk

If the patient is currently in the infectious stage and does not receive timely treatment, it may affect those around them, increasing the risk of transmission. The virus can be transmitted through blood, mother-to-child transmission, and sexual contact. Therefore, proper disinfection and preventive care are necessary.

5. Liver Damage

If a positive hepatitis B core antibody indicates an existing viral infection, it may damage liver function and liver cells, and even lead to liver failure. In such cases, it is recommended to use liver-protective medications under a doctor's guidance, such as hepatoprotective tablets, compound glycyrrhizin tablets, silybin capsules, etc.

A positive hepatitis B core antibody result can indicate different conditions, and the severity of risks varies accordingly. Therefore, it is recommended to promptly identify the underlying cause and implement targeted treatment measures to minimize liver damage.

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Is it necessary to get a hepatitis B booster shot?

In general, whether a hepatitis B booster shot is necessary depends on the status of hepatitis B surface antibodies in the body. If the hepatitis B surface antibody is positive and the titer is sufficient, vaccination is usually not required. However, if the hepatitis B surface antibody is negative, or if the antibody is positive but the titer is insufficient, vaccination is recommended. To maintain liver health and reduce the risk of hepatitis B virus infection, it is advised to undergo regular hepatitis B antibody testing.

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What is the difference between "big three positive" and "small three positive" in hepatitis B?

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Which of the Five Hepatitis B Antigen-Antibody Tests Being Positive Is Considered Normal?

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