Hepatitis B Diagram: How to Read the Main Stages

Most diagrams use arrows to show a pathway: exposure, infection of liver cells, the body's immune response, and possible clearance or persistence. The liver is the organ affected, but a diagram is a teaching aid rather than a personal diagnosis. It may show blood markers, viral material, or liver inflammation as separate parts because each describes a different question.

Symptoms can be absent. When they occur, they may include [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/), nausea, discomfort under the ribs, yellowing of the eyes, or [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/). A picture cannot tell whether a symptom is caused by hepatitis B; blood tests and an examination are needed.

Use the diagram to identify which part you want explained: how hepatitis B spreads, what the liver does, what a blood marker means, or how prevention works. Take your actual report to a clinician rather than matching it visually to an example. Assessment may include a hepatitis B blood panel and a [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/). If you have no immunity, ask whether [Hepatitis B Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-b-vaccination/) is appropriate. More condition-specific information is available under [Hepatitis B](/conditions/hepatitis-b/).

Arrange medical assessment if you develop yellow skin or eyes, unusually dark urine, persistent vomiting, severe pain in the upper abdomen, unusual bleeding, or worsening weakness. Seek urgent care for confusion, difficulty staying awake, or a rapidly deteriorating condition. Do not wait for a diagram or online explanation to settle the cause of these warning signs.

Which part of this diagram relates to my result? Do my tests show current infection, past exposure, or immunity? Is my liver inflamed, and do I need monitoring? What should I do to reduce the chance of passing the virus to others? Is vaccination recommended for my contacts?