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Source of infection due to hepatitis B virus in Greece
Abstract:
The possible source of infection due to hepatitis B virus (HBV) was investigated in 260 hospitalized adult patients with acute infections. Blood transfusions (30 patients, 11.5%), illicit drug use (16 patients, 6.2%), homosexuality (five patients, 1.9%), and possible iatrogenic transmission (77 patients, 29.6%) accounted for less than 50% of the cases of hepatitis. Thirty (29.4%) of 102 sexual partners were the most probable source of infection of the patients; three (2.9%) had a history of acute HBV infection two to six months before their partners were admitted to the hospital, and the remaining 27 (26.5%) were characterized as asymptomatic, chronic carriers of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). The HBsAg carrier rate was higher in men (47.5%) than women (12.9%) and in unmarried (31.6%) than married (25.3%) sexual partners. Hepatitis B e antigen and abnormal serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase levels were detected more frequently in sexual partners who were HBsAg carriers (29.6% and 48.1%, respectively) than in comparable control partners (2.6% and 5.4%, respectively).
Insights
Sexual partners are a significant source of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, with chronic carriers being particularly infectious. This study highlights the importance of identifying and managing HBV carriers within sexual networks to prevent transmission.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a global health concern.
- Identifying transmission routes is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential sources of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in hospitalized adult patients with acute hepatitis.
- To determine the role of sexual partners as a source of HBV transmission.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 260 hospitalized adult patients with acute hepatitis.
- Investigation of potential transmission routes including blood transfusions, drug use, sexual contact, and iatrogenic factors.
- Serological testing for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) in patients and their sexual partners.
Main Results:
- Known risk factors like blood transfusions, drug use, and iatrogenic transmission accounted for less than 50% of cases.
- Sexual partners were identified as the most probable source of infection in 29.4% of cases.
- Chronic HBsAg carriers among sexual partners showed significantly higher rates of HBeAg and elevated liver enzymes compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- Sexual transmission is a major, often underestimated, route for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
- Asymptomatic chronic HBV carriers among sexual partners pose a significant risk of transmission.
- Screening and management of HBV carriers within sexual networks are vital for controlling HBV spread.