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Published on: February 19, 2019
Hepatitis B virus in Nigerians with lichen planus
O O M Daramola1, A O George, A O Ogunbiyi
1Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. nikem95@yahoo.com
West African Journal of Medicine
|August 4, 2004
Summary
This study found a higher prevalence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg) in Nigerians with lichen planus compared to controls. Screening for HBV in lichen planus patients is recommended.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Lichen planus is a known cutaneous manifestation of Hepatitis B virus (HBV).
- The prevalence of HBV in Nigerian lichen planus patients is undocumented.
- Previous reports suggest a possible link between lichen planus and HBV.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in Nigerian patients with lichen planus.
Main Methods:
- Sixty Nigerians with lichen planus (LP group) were screened for HBsAg.
- Control groups included 30 patients with other dermatoses (Control A) and 30 healthy individuals (Control B).
- Second-generation ELISA was used for HBsAg screening.
Main Results:
- 15% (9/60) of the LP group tested HBsAg positive.
- 2 (6.2%) of Control Group A and 2 (6.2%) of Control Group B were HBsAg seropositive.
- A higher prevalence of HBsAg was observed in the lichen planus group.
Conclusions:
- Patients with lichen planus showed a higher prevalence of HBsAg compared to controls.
- While causality is not established, screening for HBV in lichen planus patients is crucial.
- Prompt therapy for positive cases is recommended.
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