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Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction-Based Detection and Quantification of Hepatitis B Virus DNA
Published on: December 15, 2023
HBV infectivity among Nigerians
S O Ola1, J A Otegbayo, G N Odaibo
1Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. soola@comui.edu.ng
African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences
|May 18, 2013
Summary
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is highly prevalent and varied in infectivity among Nigerian adults. A significant portion of the population remains susceptible to HBV, highlighting the need for continued public health efforts.
Area of Science:
- * Hepatology and Virology
- * Infectious Diseases Epidemiology
Background:
- * Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection poses a significant global health challenge.
- * Understanding HBV prevalence, infectivity, and population susceptibility is crucial for effective control strategies, particularly in endemic regions like Nigeria.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To determine the seroprevalence and infectivity of HBV in Nigerian adults.
- * To assess the susceptibility and natural immunity to HBV within the study population.
- * To investigate the influence of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection on HBV infectivity.
Main Methods:
- * Sera from 60 non-immunized adults, 14 immunized adults, and 28 hepatitis patients were tested for HBV markers (HBsAg, HBeAg, anti-HBe, anti-HBc, anti-HBs) and anti-HCV.
- * HBV DNA assay by PCR was performed on 15 subjects with chronic hepatitis.
- * Statistical analysis of serological data and HBV DNA results to determine prevalence, infectivity, and susceptibility.
Main Results:
- * Overall HBV infection prevalence (HBsAg and/or anti-HBc positive) was 55.9%.
- * HBV DNA was detected in 86.7% of chronic hepatitis patients.
- * Approximately 55% of subjects showed HBV infectivity, with varying levels, while 44.1% were susceptible and 1% naturally immune.
Conclusions:
- * HBV infection demonstrates high and varied infectivity in the Nigerian population.
- * A substantial proportion of Nigerians are susceptible to HBV infection.
- * HCV coinfection may enhance HBV infectivity, warranting further investigation.
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