Foundation Medicine Launches FoundationOne MRD Test for Molecular Residual Disease Detection

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. The infection is caused by the hepatitis B virus and can present as either an acute short-term illness or develop into a chronic long-term condition. Understanding the various laboratory tests available for hepatitis B is essential for proper diagnosis, monitoring, and management of this condition.

Several blood tests are used to detect hepatitis B infection and determine its stage. The hepatitis B surface antigen test, known as HBsAg, is typically the first screening test performed. A positive result indicates active infection with the virus. The hepatitis B surface antibody test, or anti-HBs, shows whether a person has developed immunity to the virus either through vaccination or recovery from past infection. The hepatitis B core antibody test, called anti-HBc, helps distinguish between acute and chronic infections and can indicate past exposure to the virus. These tests are often performed together as part of a hepatitis B panel to provide a complete picture of infection status.

Additional tests help assess the severity of infection and guide treatment decisions. The hepatitis B e-antigen test, or HBeAg, indicates active viral replication and high infectivity. The corresponding antibody test, anti-HBe, suggests lower viral activity. Hepatitis B viral load testing, also called HBV DNA quantification, measures the amount of virus present in the blood and is crucial for monitoring disease progression and treatment response. Liver function tests, including measurements of liver enzymes such as ALT and AST, help evaluate liver damage caused by the infection.

Healthcare providers recommend hepatitis B testing for various groups of people, including pregnant women, individuals with elevated liver enzymes, people born in areas where hepatitis B is common, household contacts of infected persons, and those who engage in high-risk behaviors. Regular monitoring through laboratory tests is important for people with chronic hepatitis B to assess liver health, determine the need for treatment, and evaluate treatment effectiveness. Early detection through appropriate testing allows for timely intervention and better health outcomes for individuals affected by hepatitis B.