Diagnosis of Viral Hepatitis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will also be done.

Tests to diagnose hepatitis may include the following:

Blood tests—Your blood is checked for the presence of hepatitis antigens and antibodies. Antigens are foreign proteins that are part of the hepatitis viruses. Antibodies are proteins that your body has made to fight the infectious agents.
Liver function studies—The levels of various liver enzymes, bilirubin, and clotting factors in your blood are measured to determine how your liver is functioning.
Liver biopsy —A sample of liver tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.

Placement of Liver Biopsy Needle

References

Hepatitis A. American Liver Foundation website. Available at: http://www.liverfoundation.org/abouttheliver/info/hepatitisa/ . Updated August 17, 2010. Accessed January 19, 2011.

What I need to know about Hepatitis B. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse website. Available at: http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/hepb%5Fez/index.htm . Published April 2009. Accessed January 19, 2011.

Revision Information

Reviewer: Daus Mahnke, MD
Review Date: 03/2013
Update Date: 00/31/2013

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.