Hepatitis B DNA Testing
What is a Hepatitis B DNA blood test?
• It is a blood test to check how much hepatitis B virus is
in the blood.
Who needs a hepatitis B DNA test?
• If you have tested positive to hepatitis B.
What if you are a ‘carrier’?
• Yes you need the test.
• ‘Healthy carrier’ or ‘carrier’ are terms no longer used for hepatitis B. You either have the virus or you don’t.
How often should the test be done?
• At least once a year. Even if your last test showed a ‘not detected’ result. This is free if you have a Medicare Card. Additional tests within one year may result in a fee that will need to be paid by the patient.
• Some people may require testing more often. Your GP or Specialist will let you know what is appropriate for you and if a fee will apply.
Why is it important to have a hepatitis B DNA blood test very year?
• This is minimum recommended testing requirements for all people living with hepatitis B
• This test along with other tests including liver function tests will show how well your immune system is controlling the virus, and how healthy your liver is.
• The test will also help the doctor to decide if you need medication to help your body control the virus and help prevent the virus causing damage to your liver, such as scarring, cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Check with your doctor if you have had a test in the last 12 months.
If you would like more information about hepatitis B please visit our webpage www.eccq.com.au/bbv for information in your language. You can email us at health@eccq.com.au
