Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026
Author Spotlight: Advancements and Challenges in Hepatitis B Virus Detection
Published on: December 15, 2023
Progress and Challenges in the Global Elimination of Viral Hepatitis D
Minghui Li1,2,3, Qi Wang1, Weihua Cao1
1Department of Hepatology Division 2, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
Insights
Hepatitis D virus (HDV), which needs hepatitis B virus (HBV) to replicate, causes severe liver disease. Eliminating HDV is challenging due to its biology, underdiagnosis, and lack of treatments, despite WHO goals.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology and Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a defective RNA virus requiring hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen for replication.
- HBV/HDV coinfection is the most severe form of viral hepatitis, accelerating liver disease progression, including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has set a 2030 target for viral hepatitis elimination, making HDV elimination a significant public health challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review global advances in HDV epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and public health strategies.
- To analyze current barriers hindering HDV elimination efforts.
- To offer strategic insights for future HDV control initiatives.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of recent global literature on HDV.
- Analysis of epidemiological data, diagnostic advancements, and therapeutic developments.
- Examination of public health strategies and challenges in HDV control.
Main Results:
- Significant progress has been made in understanding HDV epidemiology and developing new diagnostic tools.
- Several novel therapeutic agents targeting HDV are in various stages of clinical development.
- Widespread underdiagnosis and the lack of universally accessible, effective therapies remain major obstacles.
Conclusions:
- HDV elimination presents a complex challenge due to its unique biological features and diagnostic hurdles.
- Accelerated development and implementation of effective therapies and improved screening strategies are crucial.
- Coordinated global public health efforts are essential to meet the WHO's 2030 viral hepatitis elimination targets.
Abstract:
Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a defective virus whose replication depends on hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg). HBV/HDV coinfection represents the most severe form of viral hepatitis, substantially accelerating progression to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In response to the World Health Organization's (WHO) 2030 elimination target for viral hepatitis as a major public health threat, HDV elimination has emerged as one of the most formidable challenges, driven by its unique biological characteristics, widespread underdiagnosis, and historical absence of effective therapies. This article reviews key global advances in HDV epidemiology, screening and diagnosis, therapeutic development, and public health strategies. We provide an in-depth analysis of current barriers to elimination and offer strategic insights to guide future control efforts.
Related Concept Videos
01:10Retrovirus Life Cycles
01:26Diseases of the Liver and Gallbladder
Cirrhosis is characterized by the scarring of hepatic lobules in the liver, which are replaced by fibrous tissue, affecting the liver's normal functioning. NAFLD, on the other hand, is caused by an excessive build-up of fat in the liver, not...
01:29Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics
01:29Viruses with RNA Genomes
01:29Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment:
01:26Methods Of Healthcare Delivery System
Managed Care System:
The managed care system is designed to control the cost while maintaining the quality of care. The patient's care from admission to discharge is planned by the primary care provider or the case manager, also known as the gatekeeper. In a managed care system, the number of care providers is...