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Hepatitis B and C are viral infections that affect the liver and can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Both viruses spread primarily through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, though hepatitis B can also be transmitted through sexual contact and from mother to child during childbirth. While hepatitis B infection often resolves on its own in adults, hepatitis C is more likely to become chronic, meaning the infection persists for many years. Chronic infections of either virus can cause liver damage, cirrhosis, and increase the risk of liver cancer over time.

Laboratory testing plays a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring hepatitis B and C infections. For hepatitis B, initial screening typically involves testing for hepatitis B surface antigen, which indicates active infection, and antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen and core antigen, which show past infection or immunity from vaccination. Additional tests may measure viral DNA levels to assess how actively the virus is replicating. For hepatitis C, screening begins with an antibody test that detects whether someone has ever been exposed to the virus. If antibodies are present, a follow-up test called an HCV RNA test confirms whether the infection is current and active.

When hepatitis B or C is diagnosed, doctors often order additional laboratory tests to evaluate liver function and damage. These include liver enzyme tests such as ALT and AST, which become elevated when liver cells are injured, and tests measuring bilirubin, albumin, and blood clotting factors that indicate how well the liver is functioning. A complete blood count may also be performed. In some cases, specialized tests like FibroScan or liver biopsy help determine the extent of liver scarring or fibrosis.

Regular monitoring through laboratory tests is essential for people with chronic hepatitis B or C. For those undergoing antiviral treatment, viral load tests track how well the medication is working by measuring the amount of virus in the blood. The goal of hepatitis C treatment is to achieve an undetectable viral load, indicating the infection has been cleared. For hepatitis B, treatment aims to suppress viral replication and prevent liver damage, though complete elimination of the virus is less common. Periodic liver function tests and cancer screening tests like alpha-fetoprotein help detect complications early, allowing for timely intervention and better health outcomes.