Testing for hepatitis B provides information about a current or past infection with HBV. Hepatitis B testing is performed on a blood sample. Testing may be used to diagnose hepatitis B, to assess its severity, and to determine whether a person has immunity to this disease.

Should you get tested for hepatitis B?

If you're showing any signs of hepatitis B, you should get tested. It's also a good idea to get a test if you had unprotected sex or shared a needle, razor, or toothbrush with someone who has hepatitis B (even if you don't have symptoms). Your nurse or doctor will take a quick blood sample to test you for hepatitis B.

Who needs hepatitis B screening?

The CDC, the American College of Physicians, and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases recommend screening for HBV infection in asymptomatic, high-risk persons, including all persons born in countries with an HBsAg prevalence of 2% or greater regardless of vaccination history; US-born persons not ...