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Hepatitis D Virus: Introduction and Epidemiology.
1Division of Gastroenterology, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy.
Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine
|July 3, 2015
Summary
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection requires hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) for transmission, primarily affecting those with chronic HBsAg infection. While HBV control reduced HDV globally, IDUs and immigrants reintroduce it in Europe.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hepatology
Background:
- Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a unique RNA pathogen dependent on hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) for infection.
- HDV is transmitted parenterally, primarily infecting individuals with chronic HBsAg carriage who become superinfected.
- Global control of hepatitis B virus (HBV) has decreased HDV circulation in industrialized nations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the epidemiology and transmission dynamics of Hepatitis D.
- To highlight the persistent challenges posed by HDV in specific populations.
- To underscore the re-emergence of HDV in Europe.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on HDV prevalence and transmission.
- Analysis of factors influencing HDV circulation, including HBV control measures.
- Identification of key populations at risk and transmission routes.
Main Results:
- HDV infection necessitates the presence of HBsAg, making chronic HBV carriers the primary target group.
- Effective HBV control strategies have led to a decline in HDV prevalence in industrialized countries.
- Injecting drug users (IDUs) and immigrants from endemic regions are significant factors in the reintroduction of HDV into Europe.
Conclusions:
- Hepatitis D remains a significant public health concern, particularly in specific at-risk populations.
- Ongoing vigilance and targeted interventions are crucial to manage and prevent HDV transmission.
- The re-emergence of HDV in Europe underscores the importance of continued HBV prevention and surveillance efforts.
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