hepatitis

Question 1

Laboratory diagnosis

Answer 1

1. Serological: Detection of viral serological markers
2. Molecular: Detection of HBV-DNA
   * PCR
3. Biochemical: LFTs
   * Bilirubin
   * AST & ALT

Question 2

HBsAg

Answer 2

First antigen to appear

Question 3

HBeAg

Answer 3

Appears within a week or two after HBsAg

Question 4

HBcAg

Answer 4

Not detectable in the serum

Question 5

IgM Anti-HBc

Answer 5

 First antibody to appear
 Indicates recent infection

Question 6

IgG Anti-HBc

Answer 6

Indicates past infection

Question 7

Anti-HBs (HBsAb)

Answer 7

 Indicates recovery from infection
 Provides immunity

Question 8

Anti-HBe

Answer 8

Appears after disappearance of HBeAg

Question 9

Window period in HBV infection

Answer 9

Period between disappearance of HBsAg and appearance of HBsAb (Anti-HBs)
* Neither HBsAg nor HBsAb are detectable
* IgM HBcAb may be the only + marker