Additional Tests
Here are some of the tests that your doctor might order at this time:
- ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) – blood test used to evaluate the health of your liver
- HBV-DNA – measures the amount of hepatitis B virus in your blood
- AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) – used as a liver cancer marker
- e-antigen and e-antibody — measure how active the virus is in your body. These results can change over time, as the virus becomes more and less active.
- Ultrasound of the liver – allows the doctor to see if there are any abnormalities on the surface of your liver
- Liver biopsy –The removal of a small piece of tissue from the liver using a special needle. The tissue is examined under a microscope to look for inflammation or liver damage.
The results of these tests will tell you and your doctor how active the virus is in your body, whether you have any liver damage, and if you are a candidate for treatment at this time. For more specific information on each of these tests, please visit: http://www.hepb.org/patients/additional_blood_tests.htm and http://www.hepb.org/patients/liver_biopsy.htm
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