[Serum DNA of hepatitis B virus in children with chronic infection]

Viral replication has been studied in 44 children with chronic infection induced by hepatitis B virus (HBV) investigating HBV-DNA by molecular hydridization technique, correlating its presence with immunological markers and activity of liver disease. HBV-DNA presence is correlated to HBe Ag detection, but this antigen was also found in absence of viral DNA (7 cases of 31). That can mean viral replication diminishes or disappears before the seroconversion. No differences were found in viral replication phases as for clinical manifestations in children. In presence of viral DNA, serum aminotransferases were higher (p less than 0,005) and active hepatic lesions more frequent. Therefore, more cytolysis an inflammation are found in presence of circulating virus. On the other, more developed lesions (inactive cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma) have been found in viral replication absence.