[Identification of hepatitis A antigen and antibody for the diagnosis of hepatitis A infection (author's transl)].

The maximal shedding of hepatitis A antigen (HA Ag) was found about one week before the appearance of icterus. In the first week after the appearance of jaundice, it was demonstrable in 57%, and in 22% in the second week. Since no persistent shedders of antigen have been found so far, in some cases a recent hepatitis A can be detected by identification of HA Ag in a stool sample obtained as soon as possible after the onset of the disease. The reliability of the investigation for antibodies against HA Ag (Anti-HAV) was tested with respect to 892 samples sent for diagnostic evaluation. Anti-HAV could be demonstrated regularly at the onset of the disease. It increased rapidly in the first two weeks after the appearance of jaundice.