en
Hepatitis
How is hepatitis B diagnosed?
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) diagnosis is done through blood tests. A completely negative result means that you have never been exposed to, nor immunized against, HBV. In this case, you can benefit from immunization.
A positive antibody test (anti-HBs) means that you have been infected with HBV in the past and have recovered completely, or that you have been successfully immunized against HBV. (An antibody is a protein produced by the body’ s immune system that helps fight infections.)
A positive antigen test (HBsAg) means that you are carrying HBV; it can be an acute (short-lasting) or chronic (long-lasting) infection. If the virus continues to show up in your blood after 6 months, you have a chronic infection and are a carrier of the hepatitis B virus. (An antigen is bacteria, virus, or other substances foreign to the body.)
How is hepatitis B treated?
Two standard treatments for Hep B: interferon and lamivudine. Interferon is used for short periods of time. If this treatment is effective, the body will then suppress the virus on its own. Lamivudine may be used in a similar manner, or may be used to achieve long-term viral suppression. Newer treatments such as adefovir are effective in lamivudine-resistant infections.
Where can I learn more about hepatitis B?
What are the symptoms of hepatitis B?
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), other general symptoms such as tiredness, loss of appetite, joint pain, pain in the stomach area, and feelings of sickness. Symptoms may not appear in all cases, and at least 30% of seriously infected people may not show symptoms.
What do I need to talk to my doctor about?
- What kind of hepatitis do I have?
- Will my hepatitis resolve on its own?
- What are my treatment choices?
- How effective will the treatment be?
- Are there any serious complications I should know about?
- How can I help make sure I don’ t give hepatitis to others?
- Should those close to me get vaccinated against hepatitis?
Top Employers
ABOUT NOVARTIS
On March 7th, 1996 Sandoz and Ciba-Geigy, the two Swiss-based chemical/life sciences giants, became Novartis
