Which antibody persists in low-level carriers of hepatitis B virus?

The persistence of IgG anti-HBc in low-level carriers of hepatitis B virus is a significant aspect of the immune response to chronic hepatitis B infection. This antibody indicates past infection and provides evidence of the presence of the virus in the body, even when it might not be actively replicating or causing symptoms.

IgG anti-HBc typically remains detectable for a prolonged period, often for years after the acute phase of infection has resolved. This characteristic makes it a reliable marker for chronic hepatitis B, as these low-level carriers may not present with other specific serological markers of active infection. The continued presence of IgG anti-HBc highlights the individual's prior exposure to the virus and their ongoing immune response, even in the absence of detectable HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen) or significant viral replication.

In the context of different antibodies, IgM anti-HBc usually indicates recent infection and is not associated with chronic low-level carriage. Similarly, IgM anti-HBe is typically detected during acute infection and is less relevant in chronic carriers. Meanwhile, IgG anti-HBs represents recovery and clearance from infection, indicating that the person does not carry the virus. Thus, IgG anti-HBc is the key marker in identifying low-level carriers of