Hepatitis B Virus: From Diagnosis to Treatment

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Hepatitis B infection remains a significant global health issue, leading to chronic hepatitis, liver failure, and mortality.
• Transmission primarily occurs from infected mothers to children and through infected blood and body fluids.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of screening for Hepatitis B infection in pregnant women, adolescents, and high-risk adults.
• To outline diagnostic approaches for differentiating acute and chronic Hepatitis B.
• To emphasize the necessity of monitoring and antiviral treatment for chronic Hepatitis B.

Main Methods:

• Initial diagnosis involves serological tests to distinguish between acute and chronic hepatitis.
• Molecular assays are employed for viral DNA detection, quantification, genotyping, and drug resistance analysis.
• Precore/core mutation analysis aids in confirming infection and monitoring disease progression.

Main Results:

• Serological tests effectively differentiate acute from chronic hepatitis B.
• Molecular assays provide comprehensive data for infection confirmation and disease management.
• Antiviral therapies, including nucleos(t)ide analogs and pegylated interferons, are crucial for managing chronic Hepatitis B.

Conclusions:

• Regular screening and early diagnosis of Hepatitis B are essential for at-risk populations.
• A combination of serological and molecular diagnostics ensures accurate assessment and monitoring.
• Effective antiviral treatment and regular monitoring of chronic Hepatitis B patients reduce mortality and disease progression.