Table of Contents
Introduction
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It poses a significant global health problem, and understanding its diagnosis through serum markers is crucial for effective management. Serum markers are vital in diagnosing, monitoring, and managing Hepatitis B infection. This article will cover the key serum markers and the solutions provided by Joinstar, a leader in diagnostic technology.
Key Serum Markers for Hepatitis B
Serum markers are critical in understanding the infectious state and the immune response of an individual exposed to HBV. The following are key serum markers used in the diagnosis and management of Hepatitis B:
1. Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)
HBsAg is the primary marker for HBV infection. The presence of HBsAg in serum for more than six months is indicative of chronic infection. Detection of HBsAg is the first step in screening for Hepatitis B.
2. Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (anti-HBs)
The presence of anti-HBs indicates immunity against HBV. It is either a result of natural infection recovery or vaccination. A level of anti-HBs > 10 mIU/mL is considered protective against HBV.
3. Hepatitis B Core Antibody (anti-HBc)
This marker appears at the onset of acute HBV infection and remains for life. The anti-HBc IgM indicates acute infection, while the presence of anti-HBc IgG can indicate past or chronic infection.
4. Hepatitis B e Antigen (HBeAg)
HBeAg is associated with viral replication and infectivity. Its presence indicates active replication of HBV DNA, typically seen in acute infection and less frequently in chronic infection.
5. Hepatitis B e Antibody (anti-HBe)
The appearance of anti-HBe generally indicates a seroconversion of HBeAg, correlating with a lower level of viral replication and decreased infectivity.
6. Hepatitis B DNA (HBV DNA)
Quantifying HBV DNA helps in determining viral load, which is crucial for treatment decisions and monitoring the effectiveness of therapy. A high viral load is often associated with increased disease severity.
Joinstar Company Solutions
Joinstar, a leading provider of diagnostic solutions, offers a comprehensive range of assays and kits for the detection and monitoring of Hepatitis B markers. Their advanced technology ensures high sensitivity and specificity, crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of HBV infection.
Joinstar's Key Products
- Comprehensive HBV Panel: A package that provides assays for HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc, HBeAg, anti-HBe, and HBV DNA.
- Rapid Test Kits: Quick and reliable point-of-care testing solutions for HBsAg and anti-HBs.
- HBV DNA Quantification: State-of-the-art molecular diagnostic tools for accurate measurement of HBV viral load.
Joinstar’s commitment to quality and accuracy ensures that healthcare providers can make informed decisions for better patient outcomes in managing Hepatitis B.
References
- World Health Organization. Hepatitis B Fact Sheets. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-b
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hepatitis B Information. https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hbv/index.htm
- European Association for the Study of the Liver. EASL 2017 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the management of hepatitis B virus infection. J Hepatol. 2017;67:370-398.