Micro & Immunology · single question
A patient has chronic hepatitis. Which antigen/antibody marker is characteristically found in chronic hepatitis B?
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Correct answer: C. HBsAg (surface antigen)
C) HBsAg — CORRECT.
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) persists in CHRONIC hepatitis B (> 6 months). It is the hallmark marker of ongoing HBV infection (acute or chronic). If HBsAg persists beyond 6 months, the patient is considered a chronic carrier.
A) Anti-HBc IgM: Indicates ACUTE infection — appears early and disappears within 6 months.
B) Anti-HBe: Indicates low viral replication — appears as HBeAg clears; associated with improved prognosis.
D) Anti-HBs: Indicates immunity (from vaccination or resolved infection) — NOT present in active chronic infection.
Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) persists in CHRONIC hepatitis B (> 6 months). It is the hallmark marker of ongoing HBV infection (acute or chronic). If HBsAg persists beyond 6 months, the patient is considered a chronic carrier.
A) Anti-HBc IgM: Indicates ACUTE infection — appears early and disappears within 6 months.
B) Anti-HBe: Indicates low viral replication — appears as HBeAg clears; associated with improved prognosis.
D) Anti-HBs: Indicates immunity (from vaccination or resolved infection) — NOT present in active chronic infection.
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