[Hepatitis B virus infection in Tunisia]

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is endemic in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, with prevalence rates of 4-6%.
• Tunisia's specific HBV epidemiological situation requires investigation to inform public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the global situation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Tunisia.
• To determine HBV seroprevalence across different population groups using advanced testing methods.

Main Methods:

• Radioimmunoassay testing for HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc.
• Analysis of blood samples from blood donors, hemodialysis patients and staff, and patients with acute hepatitis or liver cirrhosis in Tunis.

Main Results:

• HBsAg positivity was 6.5% in young male adults and higher in hemodialysis patients (9.1% staff, 19.5% patients).
• A significant increase in HBsAg and HBV markers was observed with longer dialysis duration, with all patients showing markers after 3 years.
• HBsAg was detected in two-thirds of acute hepatitis and liver cirrhosis patients, with all cirrhosis patients positive for at least one HBV marker.

Conclusions:

• HBV infection poses a significant public health challenge in Tunisia.
• Immunization against HBV is recommended, but strategies must be tailored to the country's epidemiological and economic context.