pintaantigeenin

Pintaantigeeni, also known as HBsAg, is a surface protein of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Its presence in the blood is a key indicator of an active hepatitis B infection. When the hepatitis B virus infects liver cells, it begins to replicate, and as part of this process, it produces large amounts of HBsAg. This antigen then circulates in the bloodstream.

Detecting HBsAg in a blood test is crucial for diagnosing both acute and chronic hepatitis B infections. In acute infections, HBsAg typically appears in the blood shortly after exposure to the virus and remains detectable for several weeks or months. If the infection resolves, HBsAg levels will eventually decline and become undetectable. However, if the infection becomes chronic, HBsAg will persist in the blood for six months or longer, indicating ongoing viral replication and potential liver damage.

The development of a vaccine against hepatitis B has been a significant public health achievement. The hepatitis B vaccine works by introducing HBsAg into the body, which then stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against it. This prepares the body to fight off a real infection if exposed to the virus, preventing the development of hepatitis B disease. Therefore, HBsAg plays a dual role: it is a marker of infection and the target of effective prevention strategies.