Positive HBs antigen in the absence of hepatitis B virus infection.

Positive HBs antigen in the absence of hepatitis B virus infection. Ann Biol Clin (Paris). 2019 Oct 01;77(5):543-548 Authors: Cachinho JB, François M, Stefic K, Marlet J Abstract French recommendations for the screening of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection were updated in 2019 with the association of three markers: HBs Ag, anti-HBs Ab and anti-HBc Ab. These three markers allow identification of infected patients, vaccinated patients and patients who have been in contact with HBV. A positive HBs Ag is usually associated with HBV infection but this interpretation must take into account the clinical context. In particular, the absence of anti-HBc Ab, normal ALAT levels and the absence of jaundice can be associated with recent HBV vaccination or false-positive HBs Ag. Recent HBV vaccination can usually be confirmed by patient questioning, while confirmatory tests are useful to detect false positive HBs Ag. If necessary, a second sample can be requested to confirm the interpretation. PMID: 31638585 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Annales de Biologie Clinique - Category: Biochemistry Authors: Tags: Ann Biol Clin (Paris) Source Type: research