NEET PG High-Yield: Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is a major cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Causative Agent | HBV (Hepadnaviridae family, DNA virus). |
| Transmission | Parenteral (blood), Sexual, Perinatal (vertical). |
| Incubation Period | Long: 30–180 days (average 60–90 days). |
Serology Markers (High-Yield)
- HBsAg: First marker to appear; indicates active infection.
- Anti-HBs: Indicates immunity (post-vaccination or recovery).
- HBeAg: Marker of high infectivity/viral replication.
- Anti-HBc IgM: Marker of acute infection (“window period” hallmark).
High-Yield NEET PG Pearls:
- Vaccine: Recombinant DNA vaccine (HBsAg).
- Post-Exposure: Administer HBV vaccine + Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin (HBIG) to exposed non-immune individuals.
- Vertical Transmission: Prevention is key—screen all pregnant women; give HBIG + vaccine to the newborn within 24 hours of birth.
- Chronic Infection: Defined as HBsAg positive for > 6 months.