Hepatitis B

  My husband went to the doctor to get a prescription for medication
  to clear up his toenail fungus.  They drew blood to send to the
  lab to check his liver enzymes.  The test came back with his ALT
  being slightly elevated, 75.  At that time they decided to repeat
  the test and check for strains of hepatitis.  They also drew blood
  from me so that I could be checked also.  Today we were informed
  that both of our liver panels are normal...our enzymes are normal
  but that we both test positive for Hepatitis B antibodies.  I
  understand this to mean that at some point in time one of us had
  Hepatitis B or had sex with someone that had had hepatitis B and
  now have passed the antibodies to the other.  The doctor has
  told us that there is nothing for us to be concerned about other
  than we cannot donate blood.  I guess I am basically looking for
  reassurances as to the prognosis given by our doctor.  Any other
  information or reassurances would be greatly appreciated.
_____________
Dear Kristy,
There are a number of different antibody patterns seen in patients with hepatitis B infection.  If you have antibody to Hbs and antibody to Hbc, then you are cotrrect that you both acquired the infection and are now immune.  If you have antibody to BBc only, then there is the possibility of some active viral replication and additional tests may be necessary.
This information is presented for educational purposes only.  Always ask specific questions to your personal physician.
HFHSM.D.-rf
*keywords: hepatitis B
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