Also described as: “HBsAg positive”
Common symptoms
- Often no symptoms for years
- Found on routine, pre-surgery or pregnancy screening
- Tiredness
- Jaundice during a flare
See a doctor promptly if
- Jaundice
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Confusion
What a positive HBsAg test means
A positive HBsAg means the hepatitis B virus is present. Many people carry it for years without symptoms. What matters is how active the virus is and whether the liver is being damaged.
Evaluation
- HBeAg, HBV DNA (viral load) and liver tests
- FibroScan to check for scarring
- Ultrasound and, where needed, liver cancer surveillance
Treatment and follow-up
Not everyone needs medicines — some people only need regular monitoring. When treatment is needed, modern oral antivirals are effective at suppressing the virus and protecting the liver. Family members should be tested and vaccinated.
How we can help
Liver ClinicAssessment and long-term care for fatty liver, hepatitis B and C, jaundice, abnormal liver tests and cirrhosis — with FibroScan on site.
FibroScan (Liver Stiffness Test)A painless, 10-minute ultrasound-based test that measures liver stiffness (scarring) and fat — no needles, no admission.
Frequently asked questions
Current medicines very effectively control the virus and reduce liver damage, but complete cure is uncommon. Research on cure is ongoing.
Yes. With regular follow-up and treatment when needed, most people lead normal lives, work, marry and have children.
Yes. Spouse, children and household members should be tested and vaccinated if not immune.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shivam Kalia MBBS, MD (Medicine), DM (Gastroenterology) · Consultant Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist