Hepatitis B Antibodies: What Do Your Test Results Mean? - Internal Medicine

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Understanding your Hepatitis B test results is crucial for assessing your health status and determining the necessary steps for treatment or monitoring. Based on the information you provided, it appears that your recent test results show a positive Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) at 9.6 and a negative Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) at 9.9.
To break this down, the presence of HBsAg indicates that you are currently infected with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). This is a significant finding, as it suggests an active infection. In contrast, the absence of anti-HBs means that your body has not developed the antibodies typically produced in response to either a past infection or vaccination against Hepatitis B.
In your previous health check nine years ago, you had a negative HBsAg and a positive anti-HBs, which indicated that you had either been vaccinated against Hepatitis B or had cleared a past infection. The disappearance of anti-HBs over time can occur, especially if you were vaccinated, as the antibody levels can wane. However, the presence of HBsAg now suggests that you have been re-exposed to the virus or that there has been a reactivation of a previous infection.

Regarding your question about transmission, Hepatitis B can be transmitted through several routes, including:
1. Blood-to-blood contact: This can occur through sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, or through transfusions with infected blood.

2. Sexual contact: Although you mentioned that you have not engaged in unsafe sexual practices, it is important to consider that Hepatitis B can be transmitted through sexual activity with an infected partner.

3. From mother to child: If a mother is infected with Hepatitis B, she can transmit the virus to her baby during childbirth.

4. Open sores or cuts: Contact with open sores of an infected person can also pose a risk.

Given your current positive HBsAg result, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in liver diseases or infectious diseases. They can perform additional tests, such as Hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg), Hepatitis B viral load (HBV DNA), and liver function tests (like GOT/GPT), to assess the severity of your infection and liver health.
Treatment options for Hepatitis B depend on various factors, including the level of virus in your blood, the presence of liver inflammation, and your overall health. Antiviral medications can help manage the infection and reduce the risk of liver damage. Regular monitoring is also crucial to track the progression of the disease and adjust treatment as necessary.

In summary, your current test results indicate an active Hepatitis B infection, and it is vital to seek medical advice promptly. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and help manage the infection effectively.