The tests for detection of hepatitis B virus infection involve blood tests that detect either viral antigens or antibodies produced by the host. The hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is most frequently used to screen for the presence of this infection. It is the first detectable viral antigen to appear during infection. The infectious virion contains an inner "core particle" enclosing viral genome known as hepatitis B core antigen, or HBcAg. During this stage the host remains infected but is successfully clearing the virus, IgM antibodies to the hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc IgM) may be the only serological evidence of disease.
After HbsAg appear, another antigen Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) will appear. During the infection, the HBeAg may be cleared, and antibodies to the 'e' antigen (anti-HBe) will arise immediately afterwards. After the infection HBsAg will become undetectable and will be followed by IgG antibodies to the hepatitis B surface antigen and core antigen, (anti-HBs and anti HBc IgG). A person negative for HBsAg but positive for anti-HBs has either cleared an infection or has been vaccinated previously.
Individuals who remain HBsAg positive for at least six months are considered to be hepatitis B carriers. Carriers of the virus may have chronic hepatitis B, which would be reflected by elevated serum alanine aminotransferase levels and inflammation of the liver, as revealed by biopsy (cutting a small piece of liver for testing)
This picture shows what happens during and after the infection period
In adults, Acute hepatitis B infection does not usually require treatment because most adults clear the infection spontaneously, if not antiviral drugs can be given. For chronic infection, Interferon alfa-2b and other antiviral medicines will be given. Treatment may take a year or more, depending on the severity of the infection and the response to treatment.
After knowing all theses, we need to protect ourselves and our love one. So how do we do it?
The best way to prevent hepatitis B is to have protected sex (use a condom) and to avoid sharing needles. A vaccine is available to prevent hepatitis B. It is now routinely given in the first year of life to all newborn infants. It is safe and requires 3 shots over a 6-month period. This vaccine should be given to people who are at high risk for this illness, such as health care workers, all children, drug users, people who get tattoos or body piercing, and those with multiple sex partners.
Finally, remember the golden rules, play with fire and you will be burned. So think twice before you have unsafe sex!!
By Amas Goh
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