Hepatitis B Serological Tests and Vitamin D Values: A Seasonal Assessment

Hepatitis B virus (HBV), a significant global health concern, remains a source of infection despite the availability of effective vaccines. The progression of the disease is influenced by HBV antigens and autoimmune reactions. A deficiency in the immunomodulatory vitamin D is associated with the severity of various illnesses. The purpose of this research was to explore the relationship between HBV serological test results and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels.

The study included 120,004 HBV serological tests (Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), Hepatitis B e-antigen (HBeAg), anti-HBsAg, anti-HBeAg, antibodies to Hepatitis B core immunoglobulin G (anti-HBc IgG), and anti-HBc IgM) and 62.835 25-hydroxyvitamin D tests.

In spring, summer, and fall, 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in HBsAg-positive individuals were lower compared to HBsAg-negative individuals. Conversely, 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in individuals positive for anti-HBsAg were higher than those in anti-HBsAg-negative individuals across all seasons. Furthermore, in both cases of 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency and optimal 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, individuals positive for anti-HBsAg showed higher 25-hydroxyvitamin D values than those negative for anti-HBsAg. Additionally, individuals positive for anti-HBc IgG demonstrated higher 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels compared to anti-HBc IgG-negative individuals during winter and fall. Moreover, 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in individuals negative for anti-HbeAg were found to be below the optimal range.

In conclusion, there may be a relationship between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and hepatitis B serological test positivity. Therefore, vitamin D levels should be monitored in populations affected by HBV.