Antigen Australian

Australian antigen (HBsAg; synonym: hepatitis-associated antigen, hepatitis B antigen, serum hepatitis antigen) is the surface antigen of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Detection of HBsAg in the blood indicates current HBV infection. This antigen was first discovered in 1965 by Australian scientists Bloomberg and Prince, hence the name "Australian antigen".

HBsAg is an important diagnostic marker for hepatitis B. The HBsAg test is used to screen patients and blood donors, and to monitor the course of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment. The appearance of HBsAg in a non-immunized person indicates acute HBV infection. Persistence of HBsAg for more than 6 months indicates transition to a chronic form.

Australian antigen What is Australian antigen?

The Australian antigen is a globulin that can be found in the blood of some people and animals. It binds to the hepatitis B virus, causing various forms of hepatitis. Antigena australian can also bind to other viruses, including adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and herpes simplex virus.

The role of the Australian antigen

The role of the Australian antigen is unknown. Instead, its function is to attract other proteins that help the hepatitis B virus enter the cell. This may contribute to the development of hepatitis.

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is an acute viral disease with hemorrhagic syndrome. Its causative agent is the tick-borne fever virus. The main source of infection is infected animals, blood-sucking arthropods. The reservoir of infection among animals is rodents. Man is an additional host.