[Delta infection in hepatitis B]

The detectability of delta-infection among patients with HB virus infections and their effects on the course of hepatitis B are discussed. Anti-delta were detected in 25.2% of 111 patients with HB virus infections. The course of the disease was more severe in cases of combined infection, and delta-superinfection was associated with the clinical picture of CAH, suggesting that combined B + delta infection may be producing a profound liver damage.