Quick Answer

Hepatitis markers are blood tests that show whether a person has been exposed to, is currently infected by, or is immune to a specific hepatitis virus. Hepatitis A, B, and C are different viruses with different transmission routes, so each uses its own set of markers. Autoimmune hepatitis is not viral; its markers are autoantibodies and immunoglobulin levels, not viral tests.

  • Hepatitis A markers include anti-HAV IgM for acute infection and anti-HAV IgG for immunity.
  • Hepatitis B markers include HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc to show infection or immunity.
  • Hepatitis C markers include anti-HCV for exposure and HCV RNA for current infection.
  • Liver enzymes like ALT and AST signal liver injury but do not identify the virus.
  • Autoimmune hepatitis markers include ANA, ASMA, anti-LKM1, and elevated IgG.
  • Prednisone starting doses for autoimmune hepatitis are individualized, often 20 to 30 mg daily.

Context Most Pages Skip

Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. Viral hepatitis A, B, and C are caused by different viruses, so the immune system produces different antibodies and viral proteins appear at different times. That is why no single hepatitis marker exists. Clinicians choose tests based on likely exposure, timing, and whether the goal is to diagnose acute infection, detect chronic infection, or confirm immunity. Autoimmune hepatitis is a separate condition in which the immune system attacks liver cells; it is identified by autoantibodies, immunoglobulin levels, and biopsy rather than by viral tests. Understanding which marker means what prevents misreading a positive result.

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⚕️ This page is educational and does not replace advice from a licensed clinician. If you may have been exposed to an STI, get tested — most infections are manageable, and many are fully curable.

Sources & Further Reading

Figures reflect CDC surveillance and WHO estimates; they are population statistics, not personal risk predictions.