Abstract
BackgroundUsing serum markers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, we aimed to develop a quantitative model that explains the complicated immune response to this infection.MethodsSerum samples from HBV-infected patients were randomly selected and divided into groups based on HBV-DNA positivity or negativity. Quantitative markers of HBV were measured. Formulae for Antibody index (IAb) [(anti-HBs * 1/anti-HBe + anti-HBs * 1/anti-HBc + 1/anti-HBc * 1/anti-HBe)0.5] and Antigen index (IAg) [(HBsAg * HBeAg)0.5] were introduced.ResultsIAg values were statistically higher (p < 0.05) in the HBV-DNA-positive group than in the -negative group, but no statistically significant difference in IAb values was observed. When IAb values were > 50, IAg values were mostly < 250; when IAg values were > 250, IAb values were mostly < 50.ConclusionIAb and IAg values can efficiently reflect the status of immune response to HBV and may be suitable for assessment of the infection process and the possible outcome of infection.
Highlights
Using serum markers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, we aimed to develop a quantitative model that explains the complicated immune response to this infection
Antigen index (IAg) values were higher in the HBV-DNA-positive group than in the HBV-DNA-negative group (p < 0.05)
No significant difference in Antibody index (IAb) level was observed between the groups
Summary
Using serum markers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, we aimed to develop a quantitative model that explains the complicated immune response to this infection. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health issue worldwide [1,2,3]. The virus causes both chronic and acute infections. The host immune response causes both hepatocellular damage and clearance of viral antigen [4–6]. Serum markers of HBV infection might help with assessment of various issues such as prognosis [7–9]
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