Positive result of test

A positive test result could indicate either a past infection. This means the patient has already been in contact with hepatitis B and their immune system has succeeded in fighting off the virus. The patient will then have a natural immunity to the virus. The patient is carrying HBV and can pass it on to others. The person may not display any symptoms but could be at risk of developing chronic liver disease.  Doctor may perform a number of different types of test to distinguish between current and past infections, and to estimate how infectious a patient with a current infection may be.