Hepatitis B Viral DNA

Topic Overview

The hepatitis B virus contains DNA. If DNA from the hepatitis B virus is found in your blood sample, then your doctor knows that the virus is multiplying.

  • You are contagious when HBV DNA is present. The higher the level of HBV DNA, the more contagious you are.
  • If you have a long-term (chronic) HBV infection, the presence of high levels of viral DNA means that you are at increased risk for liver damage and may want to consider treatment with medicines.
  • Testing for the amount of HBV DNA (viral load) is an important way to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for chronic HBV infection.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerW. Thomas London, MD - Hepatology
Last RevisedOctober 29, 2012
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: October 29, 2012
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
W. Thomas London, MD - Hepatology

© 1995-, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.



Topic Contents

    Healthwise. For every health decision