Q: I have been diagnosed as Hepatitis B positive. The findings from other tests are HBV DNA negative, HCV negative and HBeAg negative. Biopsy shows no indication of any cirrosis. My only problem is that SGPT and SGOT are high. My doctor says that there is no cause to worry as over a period of time the HBsAg results can turn negative with a healthy life style. Please clarify on such a possibility. I also want to know if it is safe to take Hepatitis B vaccine after the HBsAg results turn negative?

A:I was surprised that you are HBV DNA negative and also e-antigen negative. However, the SGPT and SGOT are high. I need some more information regarding your viral serology. I need to know the following: HBsAg, HBe-antigen, anti-HBe antibody, anti-HBc antibody, anti-HBs antibody and full liver function tests. At the moment I can say that if HBV DNA is negative and biopsy does not show any active hepatitis, you can relax and I do not think any harm will be done in the near future. However, you need to have a follow up with viral serology. Regarding hepatitis B vaccine, this depends on the antibodies. If anti-HBc and anti-HBs antibodies are present, you do not need hepatitis B vaccine.