HBV Markers

HBsAG

• Hepatitis B surface antigen
• Indicator of current infection

Anti-HBc

• Total anti-HBc
• Hep B core
• Hepatitis B core antibody
• Indicates exposure to natural HBV
• The vaccine does not produce a positive anti-HBc

Anti-HBs

• Indicates immunity either from vaccination or exposure to HBV

HBV DNA

• Hepatitis B PCR
• Direct measure of viral load and infectivity

IgM anti-HBc

• Hepatitis B IgM antibody
• Indicator of recent or acute infection

HBeAG

• Hepatitis B e-antigen
• Can be an indicator of high viral replication – always check HBV DNA to confirm

Anti-HBe

• Antibody to HBeAG
• Can be an indicator of low viral replication - always check HBV DNA to confirm

ALT

• ALT (alanine aminotransferase) is a marker of liver injury. It is an enzyme found mainly inside the liver cells.
• When hepatocytes are damaged, ALT leaks into the blood and ALT rises
• When assessing chronic HBV it is important to know whether there is ongoing liver inflammation or injury. This will determine the clinical significance of the infection and whether treatment should be considered
• This test helps form a bigger picture of what the HBV virus is doing in the body