How is hepatitis B diagnosed and assessed?

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A simple blood test can detect if you are infected with the hepatitis B virus. This test detects a protein on the surface of the virus called hepatitis B surface antigen (HbsAg). If you are found to be infected (if you are HBsAg positive), then other tests may be advised to check on the severity of infection, liver inflammation, and damage to the liver. For example:

A blood test can detect various parts of the virus. This can assess how active the virus is (if it is multiplying rapidly which indicates that it is more likely to cause liver damage).
Blood tests called liver function tests. These measure the activity of enzymes (chemicals) and other substances made in the liver. This gives a general guide as to whether the liver is inflamed, and how well it is working.
An ultrasound scan of the liver.
A biopsy (small sample) of the liver may be taken to look at under the microscope. This can show the extent of any inflammation and cirrhosis.
Other tests may be done if cirrhosis or other complications develop.