Presence of HBcAg (core Antigen) in the cytoplasm and nucleus may reflect disease activity and predict response to antiviral treatment. Anti HBc IgM appears shortly after HBV infection and can be detected in serum soon after the appearance of circulating HBsAg and HBeAg. The levels are high during acute infection and typically disappear within 6 months, though it can persist in some cases of chronic hepatitis. Anti-HBc (IgG antibody) usually remains detectable for a lifetime. The Hepatitis B Core antigen test is used to detect hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in an individual. This test also helps to assess the risk of re-infection/reactivation. Anti-HBc is the only serological marker that can detect HBV infection and potentially infectious blood. This test cannot differentiate between acute, chronic, and resolved HBV infection.
