Question 1

What is Reactivation of Hepatitis B?

Accepted Answer

Hepatitis B reactivation occurs when the hepatitis B virus emerges from a dormant state and begins actively replicating again in people who previously had the infection. It is caused by immunosuppression from chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medications, or conditions that weaken the immune system, allowing the dormant virus to become active. The Hep B Core Antibody IgM test is the most important test for detecting reactivation because it distinguishes between new acute infection and reactivation of a previous hepatitis B infection.

Question 2

What causes hepatitis B reactivation?

Accepted Answer

Hepatitis B reactivation is caused by immunosuppression that weakens your immune system and allows the dormant virus to become active again. Chemotherapy for cancer treatment, immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids or biologics, organ transplant anti-rejection drugs, and medications for autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis are the primary triggers. When your immune system is suppressed, it can no longer keep the hepatitis B virus in check, allowing it to replicate and potentially cause liver inflammation and damage.

Question 3

What is the best test for hepatitis B reactivation?

Accepted Answer

The Hep B Core Antibody IgM test is the most important test for hepatitis B reactivation because it detects IgM antibodies against the hepatitis B core antigen, which distinguish between a new acute infection and reactivation of a previous infection. In people with a history of hepatitis B, a positive IgM result indicates the virus has become active again, especially in immunocompromised patients. This test is essential for anyone with previous hepatitis B infection who is starting or currently receiving immunosuppressive therapy, as early detection allows your healthcare provider to begin antiviral treatment promptly and prevent serious liver damage.

Question 4

When should I get tested for hepatitis B reactivation?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have a history of hepatitis B infection and are about to start or are currently receiving immunosuppressive therapy such as chemotherapy, biologic medications, or high-dose corticosteroids. Regular monitoring is essential for organ transplant recipients and people taking medications that suppress the immune system for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or psoriasis. Testing is also critical if you develop symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, or abdominal pain while on immunosuppressive treatment, as these may indicate the virus has reactivated.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of hepatitis B reactivation?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of hepatitis B reactivation include fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, and abdominal pain in the upper right side where your liver is located. You might notice jaundice, which causes yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes, along with dark-colored urine and pale stools. Some people experience flu-like symptoms with fever and joint pain, while others may have no symptoms at all initially, making regular blood test monitoring crucial for anyone on immunosuppressive therapy with a history of hepatitis B.

Question 6

Who is at risk for hepatitis B reactivation?

Accepted Answer

People at highest risk for hepatitis B reactivation are those with a previous hepatitis B infection or who are chronic carriers receiving immunosuppressive treatment. Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients taking anti-rejection medications, and people with autoimmune diseases taking biologics or high-dose steroids face significant risk. Anyone receiving rituximab or other B-cell depleting therapies, patients with HIV coinfection, and individuals taking disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs should be screened for hepatitis B before starting therapy and monitored regularly throughout treatment.

Question 7

What happens if hepatitis B reactivation is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If hepatitis B reactivation is left untreated, it can cause severe liver inflammation and acute hepatic failure, which can be life-threatening. The reactivated virus rapidly multiplies and attacks liver cells, potentially leading to cirrhosis, permanent liver scarring, and loss of liver function. In severe cases, untreated reactivation can result in the need for liver transplantation or death, with mortality rates ranging from 5% to 30% depending on the severity. Early detection and prompt antiviral treatment significantly reduce these risks, making regular monitoring essential for anyone on immunosuppressive therapy.

Question 8

Can hepatitis B reactivation be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hepatitis B reactivation can be diagnosed with blood tests that detect specific viral markers and antibodies. The Hep B Core Antibody IgM test identifies reactivation by detecting IgM antibodies that appear when the virus becomes active again, distinguishing it from a new infection. Additional blood tests measure hepatitis B surface antigen, viral DNA levels, and liver enzymes like ALT and AST, which become elevated when the virus damages liver cells. These blood tests allow your doctor to detect reactivation early, often before symptoms appear, enabling timely antiviral treatment.

Question 9

How is hepatitis B reactivation treated?

Accepted Answer

Hepatitis B reactivation is treated with antiviral medications such as entecavir, tenofovir, or lamivudine, which suppress viral replication and prevent liver damage. Treatment typically begins as soon as reactivation is detected and continues throughout immunosuppressive therapy and for several months afterward to prevent recurrence. Your doctor will monitor your viral load and liver function regularly through blood tests to ensure the treatment is working effectively. In some cases, prophylactic antiviral therapy may be started before immunosuppressive treatment begins to prevent reactivation from occurring in the first place.

Question 10

How can I prevent hepatitis B reactivation?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent hepatitis B reactivation by screening for previous hepatitis B infection before starting any immunosuppressive therapy and beginning prophylactic antiviral medication if you test positive. Vaccination against hepatitis B protects people who have never been infected, while those with previous infection should work closely with their healthcare team to monitor liver function and viral markers regularly. Avoiding alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet, and informing all your doctors about your hepatitis B history ensures comprehensive care. If you require immunosuppressive treatment, your doctor can prescribe antiviral medications preventively to keep the virus suppressed.

Question 11

What can I do at home to support my liver during hepatitis B reactivation?

Accepted Answer

While medical treatment is essential, you can support your liver at home by completely avoiding alcohol, which places additional stress on your liver and can worsen inflammation. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed foods, saturated fats, and added sugars. Stay well-hydrated, get adequate rest, and avoid unnecessary medications or supplements that could burden your liver, always checking with your doctor before taking anything new. Gentle exercise like walking can help maintain overall health, but avoid strenuous activity if you are experiencing fatigue or other symptoms until your doctor advises otherwise.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
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                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
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            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Hepatitis B Reactivation Blood Test

What is Reactivation of Hepatitis B?

What causes hepatitis B reactivation?

What is the best test for hepatitis B reactivation?

When should I get tested for hepatitis B reactivation?

References

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