What does the hepatitis B DNA test check for?

Generally, HBV DNA testing is primarily used to detect the viral load of hepatitis B virus in the blood, directly measuring the activity level and quantity of HBV replication in the body. Detailed analysis is as follows:

HBV DNA testing mainly detects the amount of hepatitis B viral DNA in the blood to determine whether HBV replication exists in the body and its activity level. This test helps determine the level of viral load and provides evidence for assessing the severity of hepatitis B, determining the strength of infectivity, and also assists doctors in developing treatment plans and monitoring treatment effectiveness. For example, measuring the decline in viral DNA levels during treatment can reflect whether the treatment is effective. Additionally, for hepatitis B virus carriers, regular testing can promptly detect changes in viral replication and prevent the insidious progression of the disease.

Fasting is not required before testing, but if other tests such as liver function tests that require fasting are also needed, fasting should be performed as instructed. Alcohol consumption and staying up late should be avoided before testing to reduce interference caused by abnormal physical conditions. After receiving the test report, the results should be interpreted together with other test results such as the five hepatitis B tests and liver function tests by a healthcare professional to comprehensively evaluate the condition. Avoid making self-diagnoses based solely on a single result. If test results indicate active viral replication, timely intervention measures should be taken under medical guidance, and regular follow-up tests should be conducted to monitor disease progression.