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Published on: March 13, 2015
[2000 chronic carriers of HBs antigen]
Insights
Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is more common in younger men. While most carriers have normal liver function, a high antigen titre correlates with abnormal results.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant global health concern.
- Asymptomatic carriers represent a reservoir for HBV transmission.
- Understanding the demographics and characteristics of carriers is crucial for public health strategies.
Purpose:
- To investigate the epidemiological characteristics of asymptomatic Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers.
- To analyze the relationship between HBsAg carrier status, age, sex, and liver function.
- To examine HBsAg subtype ratios in a French population.
Summary:
- A study of 2000 asymptomatic HBsAg carriers revealed higher prevalence in men (3x) and younger individuals (under 35), with a noted increase after 55 years.
- HBsAg titre generally did not correlate with age, except for low titres observed in 5.65% of carriers over 45.
- The an/ay subtype ratio was 2.6 in French subjects and 1.6 in blood group O, showing no age variation.
- Normal liver function tests were observed in 78.5% of carriers, significantly lower (45.6%) in those with high HBsAg titres.
Impact:
- Findings highlight demographic disparities in HBsAg carriage, informing targeted screening and prevention efforts.
- The correlation between high HBsAg titre and abnormal liver function underscores the need for monitoring in certain carrier groups.
- Epidemiological data on HBsAg subtypes contributes to understanding HBV diversity and transmission patterns.
Abstract:
By a study of 2000 asymptomatic carriers of the HBs antigen, the following information was obtained: their frequency is 3 times greater in men than in women and twice as great in young subjects as compared with subjects aged over 35 years. However an increase in this frequency is noted beyond 55 years. The titre of the HBs antigen is not related to age, except for low titres, (5.65% of carriers frequent beyond the age of 45 years. The ratio an/ay (major subtypes) is 2.6 in French subjects. It does not vary with age. It is 1.6 in subjects of Group 0. Normal liver function tests were observed in 78.5% of all carriers, (women 91.5%, men 73.4%) and in only 45.6% of those with a high HBs antigen titre.
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