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Detection of Low Copy Number Integrated Viral DNA Formed by In Vitro Hepatitis B Infection
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Detection of Low Copy Number Integrated Viral DNA Formed by In Vitro Hepatitis B Infection

Published on: November 7, 2018

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Risk factors for intrauterine infection with hepatitis B virus

Zhao Zhang1, Aizhen Li2, Xiaomin Xiao1

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.

International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics: the Official Organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics
|March 7, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) intrauterine infection is linked to maternal HBV DNA, hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) positivity, and thalassemia minor. High maternal viral load significantly increases infection risk in newborns.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Virology
  • Obstetrics

Background:

  • Hepatitis B virus (HBV) poses a significant risk to newborns, with intrauterine transmission being a critical concern.
  • Understanding risk factors for intrauterine HBV infection is crucial for effective prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify key risk factors associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) intrauterine infection in pregnant women.
  • To establish objective diagnostic criteria for HBV intrauterine infection.

Main Methods:

  • Collected peripheral blood samples and clinical data from 174 HBsAg-positive pregnant women.
  • Monitored 176 neonates receiving active-passive immunization, testing infant blood for HBV markers and DNA before prophylaxis.
  • Analyzed maternal HBV DNA levels, HBeAg status, and presence of thalassemia minor as potential risk factors.

Main Results:

  • The intrauterine infection rate was 5.1% at 6 months post-birth.
  • Maternal HBV DNA positivity (especially ≥10^5 copies/mL), HBeAg positivity, and thalassemia minor were significantly associated with intrauterine infection.
  • Mothers with ≥10^5 copies/mL of HBV DNA had an 18.2% infection rate compared to 0.8% for those with lower viral loads.

Conclusions:

  • A positive HBsAg test at 24 hours/1 month and again at 6 months serves as a reliable diagnostic criterion for HBV intrauterine infection.
  • Maternal HBV DNA load (≥10^5 copies/mL), HBeAg positivity, and thalassemia minor are significant risk factors for intrauterine HBV transmission.
Abstract

Keywords:
Hepatitis B virusIntrauterine infectionRisk factors

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