Immunoglobulin M antibody to Hepatitis A virus (Anti-HAV IgM)

Immunoglobulin M antibody to Hepatitis A virus (anti-HAV IgM) is a serological biomarker indicating active or recent hepatitis A infection rather than a therapeutic drug target. IgM is the first antibody class produced by the adaptive immune system in response to hepatitis A virus exposure, becoming detectable 1-2 weeks after symptom onset and typically persisting for up to 6 months. The presence of anti-HAV IgM antibodies is diagnostic of acute hepatitis A infection and is the primary serological marker used to confirm acute infection in symptomatic individuals. Detection relies on immunoassay platforms such as ELISA and electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA), which capture IgM antibodies bound to HAV antigens. While anti-HAV IgM serves no therapeutic role as a drug target, it remains an essential diagnostic tool for distinguishing acute hepatitis A from other hepatitis types and from past infection (indicated by persistent IgG antibodies).

Other names

Anti-HAV IgMIgM anti-HAVHAV-specific IgM antibodyHepatitis A virus IgM antibodyIgM antibodies to hepatitis A virus

Not applicable as a therapeutic target. As a diagnostic marker, IgM antibodies function by binding to hepatitis A viral antigens in immunoassays, serving as a serological indicator of acute infection.