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Hepatitis B virus DNA in cervicovaginal cells
1Department of Biochemistry, Chang Gung Medical College, Taiwan, Republic of China.
Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
|June 1, 1991
Summary
Hepatitis B virus DNA was found in cervicovaginal cells of pregnant women. This suggests infected cells may transmit the hepatitis B virus (HBV) to newborns and partners.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant global health concern.
- Vertical and horizontal transmission routes of HBV are well-documented.
- The role of cervicovaginal cells in HBV transmission requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of Hepatitis B virus DNA in cervicovaginal cells of pregnant women.
- To explore the potential role of cervicovaginal cells as a reservoir for HBV transmission.
Main Methods:
- Cervicovaginal cell specimens were collected from 58 pregnant women.
- Polymerase DNA amplification assay was used to detect HBV DNA sequences.
Main Results:
- Hepatitis B virus DNA was detected in 7 out of 58 (12.1%) specimens.
- This indicates a detectable presence of HBV in the female genital tract during pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that infected cervicovaginal cells could be a potential source of HBV transmission.
- This route may contribute to mother-to-newborn transmission and transmission between sexual partners.