The occurrence of antibodies to HB core antigen (HBc) in conjunction with absence of HBsAg in 0.6% of the women we tested1 could imply false-positive results on testing for anti-HBc, a low-level HBsAg carrier state, an atypical serological response to acute infection or continued anti-HBc positivity after resolution of an infection.
Because our study was unlinked (i.e., individual identifiers were removed from the data), further testing to better define the subjects' clinical status would not have benefited the individuals directly. Unfortunately, only a limited amount of sera was available, so testing for other serological markers was not possible. In addition, the samples were handled by automated analyzers and were not stored in a manner appropriate for preserving HB virus. Therefore, the results of viral DNA testing would not have been reliable.
Meenakshi Dawar First Nations and Inuit Health Branch Medical Programs, Pacific Region Health Canada Vancouver, BC
Reference
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