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Updated: May 17, 2026
04:11
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction-Based Detection and Quantification of Hepatitis B Virus DNA
Published on: December 15, 2023
Occult Hepatitis B (OBH) in Clinical Settings
Seyed Moayed Alavian1, Seyed Mohammad Miri, F Blaine Hollinger
1Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran.
Hepatitis Monthly
|October 23, 2012
Summary
Occult hepatitis B (OHB) involves persistent hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in HBsAg-negative individuals. Its clinical relevance, pathogenesis, and impact on liver disease and cancer remain largely unknown, necessitating improved diagnostics and monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Occult hepatitis B (OHB) is defined by persistent hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-negative individuals.
- This entity represents a recently recognized challenge in HBV infection management.
- OHB is increasingly identified across diverse patient populations and clinical scenarios.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current hypotheses regarding the clinical significance of OHB.
- To update knowledge on the classification of OHB in various clinical settings.
- To summarize the existing understanding of this cryptic HBV infection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of proposed hypotheses and classifications of OHB.
- Analysis of OHB prevalence in different patient groups, including those with viral co-infections, chronic HBV carriers, dialysis patients, and transplant recipients.
- Identification of special clinical settings where OHB may occur.
Main Results:
- The precise prevalence, pathogenesis, and clinical impact of OHB are not yet fully elucidated.
- The role of OHB in liver disease progression and hepatocellular carcinoma development is unknown.
- OHB can be detected in various populations, including those with HIV, HCV, chronic HBV, and in transplant and dialysis patients.
Conclusions:
- Effective control of HBV transmission via cryptic infections requires monitoring individuals with positive anti-HBc antibodies.
- Widespread HBV vaccination programs are crucial for reducing transmission.
- Advancements in diagnostic tools are essential for better detection and management of OHB.
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