Which serologic marker indicates past or current infection with HBV?

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Multiple Choice

Which serologic marker indicates past or current infection with HBV?

The marker that signals prior exposure to HBV (and can be present in current or past infection) is anti-HBc. This antibody appears with HBV infection and often persists for life, indicating that the person has been infected at some point. In contrast, HBsAg shows active infection, anti-HBs indicates immunity (from vaccination or recovery), and HBeAg reflects active viral replication and high infectivity. While IgM anti-HBc points to a recent acute infection, the general anti-HBc marker is the best indicator of past or ongoing infection.

The marker that signals prior exposure to HBV (and can be present in current or past infection) is anti-HBc. This antibody appears with HBV infection and often persists for life, indicating that the person has been infected at some point. In contrast, HBsAg shows active infection, anti-HBs indicates immunity (from vaccination or recovery), and HBeAg reflects active viral replication and high infectivity. While IgM anti-HBc points to a recent acute infection, the general anti-HBc marker is the best indicator of past or ongoing infection.

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