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Dane particles-associated hepatitis B core antigen in patients with HBsAg-positive chronic hepatitis

E Sagnelli, S J Vernace, F Paronetto

    Gastroenterology
    |November 1, 1978
    PubMed

    Insights

    Hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) in the blood was found in 61% of chronic hepatitis B patients. Detecting HBcAg can indicate a poor prognosis in chronic active hepatitis B.

    Area of Science:

    • Hepatology
    • Virology
    • Immunology

    Background:

    • Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects millions globally.
    • Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity indicates chronic infection.
    • The role of hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) in disease progression requires further elucidation.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To determine the prevalence of Dane particles-associated hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) in patients with HBsAg-positive chronic hepatitis.
    • To assess the clinical and epidemiological significance of HBc antigenemia.

    Main Methods:

    • Radioimmunoassay was used to quantify HBcAg levels in serum samples.
    • The study included 61 patients diagnosed with HBsAg-positive chronic hepatitis.

    Main Results:

    • HBc antigenemia was detected in 61% of the studied patients.
    • Higher HBcAg levels were observed in individuals with epidemiological risk factors, particularly male homosexuals.
    • HBcAg-positive patients with chronic active hepatitis exhibited a poorer prognosis compared to HBcAg-negative patients (P < 0.001).

    Conclusions:

    • Serum HBcAg detection is a valuable clinical and epidemiological marker in HBsAg-positive chronic hepatitis.
    • The presence of HBcAg, especially in chronic active hepatitis, is associated with a less favorable disease outcome.
    • HBcAg levels tend to decrease or become undetectable over time during follow-up.

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