What is the role of Anti-HBs in hepatitis B infection?

Anti-HBs, or Antibody to Hepatitis B Surface Antigen, plays a vital role in the assessment of hepatitis B infection and its progression. When a person is infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV), their immune system produces Anti-HBs in response to the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). The presence of Anti-HBs signifies that the body has effectively mounted an immune response against the virus.

Specifically, Anti-HBs serves as a marker of recovery from an acute hepatitis B infection and indicates that the individual has developed immunity to the virus, either as a result of clearing the infection naturally or as a consequence of vaccination. When Anti-HBs levels are detectable, it demonstrates that the infectious phase of hepatitis B has passed, and the person is no longer contagious, as they have made antibodies that provide protective immunity against future infections.

This understanding positions Anti-HBs as an essential serological marker in clinical practice for determining a patient’s immune status regarding hepatitis B and aids in the management and monitoring of individuals with a history of HBV infection.