During the window period of Hepatitis B, which serologic markers are present?

During the window period of Hepatitis B, the serologic markers that are typically present include Anti-HB core IgM and Anti-HB e IgG. The window period refers to the time after an individual is infected with the virus and before the development of detectable Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and before the production of Anti-HB surface antibodies (anti-HBs).

At this stage, the individual may have cleared the HBsAg but has not yet developed enough anti-HBs. During this time, the immune response is producing Anti-HB core IgM, which indicates acute infection, and Anti-HB e IgG, which indicates some level of progression in the immune response to the virus.

This combination reflects an ongoing immune response to the Hepatitis B virus while the person may not have fully transitioned to a state where protective antibodies (anti-HBs) are present. Understanding the window period is critical for diagnosing Hepatitis B infection accurately and interpreting serological tests correctly.