Understanding Lab Tests for Chronic Hepatitis
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Chronic hepatitis is a long-term inflammation of the liver that persists for at least six months. This condition can be caused by viral infections, autoimmune disorders, or other factors, and requires specific blood tests for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression.
Top Recommended Test
Hepatitis Panel Acute, w/ Ref Confirmation
This comprehensive panel is essential for diagnosing chronic hepatitis. A moderate index value in this test can indicate a chronic, long-term hepatitis infection where the body has not been able to fully eliminate the virus. The virus continues to persist, often leading to progressive liver damage over time, making this test crucial for confirming the diagnosis.
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Diagnosing Chronic Hepatitis
Blood tests are the primary method for diagnosing chronic hepatitis, as they can detect viral markers, assess liver function, and identify inflammatory patterns. Early detection through testing is crucial because chronic hepatitis can progress to serious complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated.
Other Relevant Tests
Rheumatoid Factor (RA)
This test measures rheumatoid factor levels in the blood. High levels of rheumatoid factor can be found in patients with chronic hepatitis, serving as an additional inflammatory marker that supports the diagnosis and helps assess the systemic impact of the liver inflammation.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Panel 1
This comprehensive panel includes rheumatoid factor among other inflammatory markers. Abnormally high levels of rheumatoid factor found in this panel can also be present in individuals with chronic hepatitis, providing additional evidence of the inflammatory process affecting the liver that can lead to serious complications like liver cancer or cirrhosis.
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Understanding Your Results
Chronic hepatitis testing results help healthcare providers determine the specific type of hepatitis, assess the severity of liver inflammation, and monitor disease progression. These tests are fundamental for developing an appropriate treatment plan and preventing serious complications.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of chronic hepatitis.
