Care and monitoring
been shown to result in benefit. But people in the second and fourth phases should be actively monitored for antiviral therapy, as treatment then can lead to a reduction in liver damage and reduced rates of liver failure and liver cancer. This monitoring can be done by assessing the levels of liver enzymes, hepatitis B DNA levels, and by liver biopsy. Regardless of what phase, anyone with cirrhosis and detectable hepatitis B DNA may benefit from treatment.
Nobody with chronic hepatitis B should be considered a ‘healthy carrier’ and be dismissed from regular follow-up. If you have chronic hepatitis B and have no arrangement for regular monitoring of your liver health and disease progression, see your GP immediately to set up six-monthly liver check-ups. Remember, there is no such thing as a ‘healthy carrier’ of hepatitis B.
Everybody who has chronic hepatitis B needs to remain in long-term follow-up to ensure they are properly assessed regularly. This will help detect the movement from one phase of chronic hepatitis B to another so that treatment can be offered when it can give the most benefit.
For more information, call 1800 437 222 or visit www.hepsa.asn.au.
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Hepatitis SA
Ph 1800 437 222 or (08) 8362 8443 Kaurna Country 3 Hackney Rd Hackney SA 5069 PO Box 782 Kent Town SA 5071 www.hepatitissa.asn.au SA Health has contributed funds towards this Program. Last update: Aug 2021
Hepatitis B:
There’s no such thing as a ‘healthy carrier’