
Code EM - Emergency Medicine Education / Medical Update
February 23, 2025 at 12:34 PM
Initial Testing Bundle:
- Order HBsAg, anti-HBc, and anti-HBs
Then follow the HBsAg result:
*1. If HBsAg is Positive* :
- Order IgM anti-HBc
- If IgM anti-HBc is positive → _Acute HBV Infection_
- If IgM anti-HBc is negative → _Chronic HBV Infection_
- For chronic infection, order additional tests:
* HBeAg
* HBV DNA
* LFTs (Liver Function Tests)
* Liver fibrosis assessment
*2. If HBsAg is Negative:*
Check anti-HBc status:
A. If anti-HBc is Positive:
- Check anti-HBs
- If anti-HBs positive → _Resolved HBV Infection_
- If anti-HBs negative → _Four possible interpretations:_
1. _Resolved infection_
2. _False positive anti-HBc_
3. _'Low level' chronic infection_
4. _Window period_
B. If anti-HBc is Negative:
- Check anti-HBs
- If anti-HBs positive → _Immune due to vaccination_
- If anti-HBs negative → _Susceptible (candidate for vaccination)_
This systematic approach helps determine the patient's Hepatitis B status and appropriate next steps in management.
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