Which serologic marker indicates an active hepatitis B virus infection?

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Multiple Choice

Which serologic marker indicates an active hepatitis B virus infection?

Active hepatitis B infection is indicated by the hepatitis B surface antigen in the blood. HBsAg appears early after infection and remains detectable as long as the virus is present, signaling current viral replication. In contrast, anti-HBs denotes immunity (through recovery or vaccination), anti-HBc reflects exposure (IgM indicates a recent infection but total anti-HBc isn’t a definitive marker of ongoing infection), and HBeAg points to viral replication level and infectiousness rather than simply the presence of infection. Therefore, HBsAg is the best marker that confirms an active HBV infection.

Active hepatitis B infection is indicated by the hepatitis B surface antigen in the blood. HBsAg appears early after infection and remains detectable as long as the virus is present, signaling current viral replication. In contrast, anti-HBs denotes immunity (through recovery or vaccination), anti-HBc reflects exposure (IgM indicates a recent infection but total anti-HBc isn’t a definitive marker of ongoing infection), and HBeAg points to viral replication level and infectiousness rather than simply the presence of infection. Therefore, HBsAg is the best marker that confirms an active HBV infection.

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