What does it mean if a pregnant woman has high levels of hepatitis B core antibody?

Elevated hepatitis B core antibody levels in pregnant women may result from previous hepatitis B virus infection, testing errors, immune fluctuations during pregnancy, chronic hepatitis B, or acute phase of hepatitis B virus infection. These conditions can be confirmed through re-examination and improved via lifestyle adjustments or medication. If symptoms such as abnormal liver function, fatigue, or malaise occur, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Previous hepatitis B virus infection: After recovering from a past hepatitis B virus infection, the body produces core antibodies, which are non-infectious and generally do not affect maternal health. It is recommended to regularly retest the five-panel hepatitis B markers to monitor antibody changes; specific treatment is usually unnecessary.

2. Testing error: Factors such as test reagents or procedural issues may lead to falsely elevated results without clinical significance. It is advised to repeat the five-panel hepatitis B test at a reputable hospital to ensure accuracy.

3. Immune fluctuations during pregnancy: Changes in immune function during pregnancy may temporarily elevate core antibody titers without other abnormalities. It is recommended to maintain regular sleep patterns, eat a balanced diet, strengthen physical health, and undergo routine prenatal checkups.

4. Chronic hepatitis B: Persistent hepatitis B virus infection damages liver cells, resulting in positive core antibodies, possibly accompanied by abnormal liver function, fatigue, and reduced appetite. Under medical guidance, medications such as tenofovir disoproxil fumarate capsules, tenofovir alafenamide fumarate tablets, or lamivudine tablets may be used to improve symptoms.

5. Acute phase of hepatitis B virus infection: Recent infection triggers the immune system to produce core antibodies, potentially causing low-grade fever, discomfort in the liver area, and elevated transaminase levels. Patients may follow medical advice to use telbivudine tablets, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablets, or diammonium glycyrrhizinate enteric-coated capsules to relieve symptoms.

Maintain a light and easily digestible diet, consume more fresh fruits, vegetables, and high-quality protein, avoid overexertion and staying up late, engage in moderate walking to enhance physical condition, regularly recheck liver function and hepatitis B markers, and maintain a positive mood to support a healthy pregnancy.