Hepatitis B is a viral infection affecting the liver. It can be acute or chronic. Chronic Hepatitis B is characterized by the long-term presence of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the body, which can lead to liver damage over time. The Hepatitis B Panel for chronic cases is a set of blood tests that assesses different components of the infection. These include the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), Hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg), and Hepatitis B e-antibody (Anti-HBe). This panel of tests helps to determine the activity and severity of the infection, and guides the management and treatment plan.
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus. It can vary in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, lifelong illness. Chronic Hepatitis B can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even death.
HBsAg is the surface antigen of the Hepatitis B virus, and its presence indicates an active infection. HBeAg is a protein that is part of the virus and indicates that the virus is actively replicating, meaning the person is more infectious. Anti-HBe is the antibody produced by the immune system in response to HBeAg, suggesting that the virus might be less active.
Note: Home Sample Collection is only for Pathology lab tests.
The panel is essential to determine the stage and activity of chronic Hepatitis B infection. It provides insights into the replicative status of the virus and helps in making informed decisions regarding treatment and management.
A positive HBsAg result indicates an active Hepatitis B infection, either acute or chronic.
A positive HBeAg result means that the virus is actively replicating, and the person is highly infectious.
A positive Anti-HBe result indicates that the person’s immune system is responding to the infection and may mean that the virus is less active.
Many individuals with Chronic Hepatitis B do not show symptoms for a long time. When symptoms do appear, they can include fatigue, jaundice, nausea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.
Chronic Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with blood and other body fluids of an infected person. This can occur through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child at birth.
There is no cure for Chronic Hepatitis B, but it can be managed with antiviral medications and regular monitoring to reduce the risk of liver damage.
Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis B ../includes antiviral medications that help to slow down the virus replication and reduce liver damage. Regular monitoring and liver function tests are also essential.
It’s important to follow your doctor's advice, take prescribed medications, avoid alcohol, practice safe sex, and get regular check-ups. Inform close contacts so they can also get tested and vaccinated.
Yes, vaccination is highly effective in preventing Hepatitis B infection and is recommended for all infants at birth and adults who are at risk of infection.
Modifiable factors include lifestyle habits like drug use, unprotected sex, and alcohol consumption which can exacerbate liver damage. Non-modifiable factors include age at infection, gender, and genetic factors.
If your Hepatitis B Panel results are abnormal, consult a hepatologist, a doctor who specializes in liver diseases, or an infectious disease specialist.
Yes, Chronic Hepatitis B can lead to serious complications, such as cirrhosis or liver cancer.
The frequency of testing depends on the stage of the infection and the treatment plan. Your doctor will recommend the best schedule for you.
The Hepatitis B Panel - Chronic provides information about the presence and activity of a Hepatitis B infection, helping to guide treatment and management strategies.
Yes, this test can be done on children, particularly those at high risk of infection or those born to Hepatitis B infected mothers.
The Hepatitis B Panel - Chronic is a vital tool in the management and treatment of chronic Hepatitis B infections. It provides essential information about the state and activity of the infection, guiding decisions about treatment and monitoring. Regular testing, along with following your doctor's advice and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can help manage the infection and limit its impact on your health.