Hepatitis B

HBV causes acute or chronic inflammation of the liver. Chronic infection requires monitoring even without symptoms.

Through blood, sexual contact and from mother to child during birth. Shared needles, razors and unsterile instruments can transmit it.

It is not transmitted through shared food, water, hugs or ordinary social contact.

After possible exposure, a clinician checks vaccination status and whether vaccine and/or immunoglobulin are needed. Discuss prevention as soon as possible.

Symptoms can appear approximately 30–180 days after infection. This is not the window period for every laboratory marker.

Different markers appear at different times. Baseline and repeat testing are planned according to exposure and vaccination; do not wait for symptoms.

Fatigue, nausea, dark urine, abdominal pain and jaundice. These symptoms alone are not enough for a diagnosis.

Yes. Chronic infection can go unnoticed for years.

Mainly the liver. Testing uses blood, not separate throat or rectal swabs.

The combination of HBsAg, anti-HBs and total anti-HBc distinguishes current infection, immunity and past exposure. Additional tests are ordered when needed.

Blood. If infection is identified, HBV DNA, liver blood tests and assessment of the liver may be needed.

Positive HBsAg suggests current infection; isolated positive anti-HBs may indicate vaccine immunity. Do not interpret one marker without context.

Acute infection often requires monitoring and supportive care. Antiviral treatment for chronic infection is determined using clinical criteria.

Recovery often provides immunity. Reactivation is possible during immunosuppression: tell your clinician about previous HBV before such treatment.

Sexual and household contacts should be referred for testing and vaccination if they lack immunity.

Vaccination, condoms and not sharing personal items that may contact blood. Use sterile instruments.

After a recent significant exposure or for jaundice. Confusion, severe drowsiness and bleeding require emergency care.

Check your vaccination history and discuss the appropriate marker panel. Arrange medical follow-up for a positive result.