Figure 2. Color-enhanced Transmission Electron Micrograph (TEM) of the Hepatitis B virus
Researchers have shown that HBeAg status influences viral load in patients with HBV infection, and thus can be considered a predictor of outcome and an important consideration in treatment choice. Acute HBV infection is generally considered resolved once an individual has developed antibodies to the hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) and has cleared hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) from the serum. Conversely, acute viral hepatitis, as detected by HBcAb IgM, may evolve into chronic hepatitis, which can then progress to cirrhosis. HBV infection is considered to have progressed to chronic infection when HBsAg and hepatitis B viral DNA are found to persist in the serum for longer than 6 months.
HBV genotype, gender, and HBcAb IgM are not predictors of outcome in patients with hepatitis B infection.
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Cite this: George Y. Wu. Fast Five Quiz: Hepatitis B Epidemiology and Prevention - Medscape - Mar 03, 2020.
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