Infection Control · single question
What serological marker is present in ACUTE HBV infection?
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Correct answer: D. Anti-HBc IgM
- A. HBsAg IS present in acute infection, but Anti-HBc IgM is the specific ACUTE marker because it persists through the window period when HBsAg may have already cleared.
- B. Anti-HBs indicates IMMUNITY — either from vaccination or recovery. It is NOT present during acute infection.
- C. Anti-HBc IgG indicates PAST or chronic HBV infection — not acute.
- D. Anti-HBc IgM is the hallmark of ACUTE HBV infection. It is the first antibody produced and is detectable in the 'window period' when HBsAg may have cleared but anti-HBs has not yet developed. IgM = acute; IgG = past/chronic.
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