The health examination report shows abnormalities?
Hello Dr.
Chen, I recently had a health check-up at the hospital, and the report showed that my Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg, EIA) test result was 0.341, which is NEGATIVE.
The reference value is also NEGATIVE.
However, the Hepatitis B surface antibody (Anti-HBs) test result was <2.00, which is NEGATIVE, while the reference value is POSITIVE.
Could you please clarify if this abnormal result indicates an infection? Thank you!
Wei Zhen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/15
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Miss: There is no problem; you are not a carrier of hepatitis B, but you also do not have hepatitis B antibodies.
It is possible that the hepatitis B vaccine you received at birth has become undetectable as you aged.
Currently, there is no requirement for non-healthcare personnel to receive additional hepatitis B vaccinations.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shidian
Reply Date: 2015/09/15
More Info
Hello! Thank you for your inquiry regarding your recent liver test results, specifically concerning the hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers. Based on the information you've provided, let's break down the results and their implications.
Your test results indicate that the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is negative, with a value of 0.341, which falls within the reference range of negative. This means that there is no active Hepatitis B infection at this time. HBsAg is a protein on the surface of the virus; if it is present in the blood, it indicates that a person is currently infected with Hepatitis B.
On the other hand, your Hepatitis B surface antibody (Anti-HBs) test result is less than 2.00, which is also classified as negative. Anti-HBs is an antibody that develops after recovery from Hepatitis B infection or after vaccination against the virus. A positive Anti-HBs result indicates immunity to Hepatitis B, either from past infection or vaccination. Since your result is negative, it suggests that you do not have immunity to the virus.
In summary, your results indicate that you are neither currently infected with Hepatitis B (as shown by the negative HBsAg) nor do you have immunity to it (as indicated by the negative Anti-HBs). This situation could arise if you have never been exposed to the virus or vaccinated against it.
Implications and Recommendations
1. No Current Infection: The negative HBsAg result is reassuring as it indicates that you are not currently infected with Hepatitis B. This is a positive outcome, especially considering the potential complications associated with chronic Hepatitis B infection, such as liver cirrhosis or liver cancer.
2. Lack of Immunity: The negative Anti-HBs result suggests that you do not have immunity to Hepatitis B. If you have never been vaccinated, it may be advisable to discuss vaccination options with your healthcare provider. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect against Hepatitis B infection.
3. Follow-Up Testing: If there is any concern about potential exposure to Hepatitis B in the future or if you are at risk (for example, if you work in healthcare or have certain lifestyle factors), regular monitoring and follow-up testing may be warranted.
4. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: It is essential to discuss these results with your healthcare provider, who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history, risk factors, and lifestyle. They may recommend vaccination against Hepatitis B if you are at risk or have never been vaccinated.
5. Understanding Other Tests: If you have had other liver function tests or markers checked, it is essential to interpret those results in conjunction with your Hepatitis B tests. Abnormal liver function tests can indicate liver inflammation or damage, which may require further investigation.
In conclusion, your current test results indicate that you are not infected with Hepatitis B but also do not have immunity to it. It is crucial to have a conversation with your healthcare provider about the next steps, including the possibility of vaccination and any necessary follow-up testing. Staying informed and proactive about your liver health is vital for your overall well-being.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Abnormal Liver Function Tests: What Do Your Results Mean?
I had a blood test at the end of June this year, and three liver function results showed abnormal values: Total Protein (8.8), Globulin (4.1), G.O.T. (40), and G.P.T. (80). What issues might my liver have, and how should I address them? Thank you!
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Liver function abnormalities are commonly seen in acute hepatitis, chronic persistent hepatitis, or congenital bile metabolism disorders, among others. It is recommended to follow up with a gastroenterology outpatient clinic and undergo ultrasound examination.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver Function Tests: What Do Your Results Mean?
Understanding Abnormal Liver Enzymes: What You Need to Know
Dear Dr. Lin, I hope this message finds you well. Recently, the company sent out the health check report for April, and I noticed some abnormalities in my liver function tests, which has caused me some concern. I would appreciate your assistance in addressing this matter. The r...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Abnormal liver function tests, although not significantly elevated, require investigation to determine the cause and to monitor for chronic Hepatitis B or C. Common causes of liver function abnormalities include fatty liver, alcohol consumption, metabolic syndrome, weight gain, e...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver Enzymes: What You Need to Know
Understanding Abnormal Liver Function: Symptoms and Concerns
Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been feeling very sleepy and fatigued, and I'm a bit worried that it might be due to liver dysfunction. After a blood test, my GOT and GPT levels were 50 and 98, respectively. I would like to ask: 1. Could these values cause the symptoms mentio...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: (1) It is possible, but more likely due to poor sleep, which can lead to elevated liver function tests. (2) An increase of about two times is not considered severe as long as there is no accompanying jaundice or coagulopathy. (3) Such data indicates hepatitis. Whether ther...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver Function: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Liver Function Tests: Normal Results with Elevated Bilirubin Levels
Doctor, I received my lab results today: G.O.P = 21, G.P.T = 31, and albumin = 4.4, all of which are normal. I am a carrier of hepatitis B, but why is my total bilirubin level 1.88 under these normal conditions? What could be the reason for this? What should I pay attention to, a...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. (1) Hepatitis B carriers should undergo regular monitoring of GOT, GPT, AFP, and abdominal ultrasound. (2) Elevated total bilirubin can be attributed to three main causes: 1. Excessive destruction of red blood cells leading to the release of too much hemoglobin; 2. Liver dysfu...[Read More] Understanding Liver Function Tests: Normal Results with Elevated Bilirubin Levels
Related FAQ
Blood Test
(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Liver(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Liver Fibrosis(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Fecal Occult Blood(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Jaundice(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Health Check-Up Report(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Liver Tumor(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Belly(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Liver Nodules(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Hepatitis C(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)