Screening hospital patients for hepatitis B surface antigen

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant global health concern.
• Asymptomatic HBV infections are common and can contribute to disease transmission.
• Hospitalized populations may represent a reservoir for HBV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B antibody (anti-HBs) in adult hospital admissions.
• To assess the proportion of hepatitis B infections that are clinically unrecognized.
• To inform discussions on the utility of routine hepatitis B screening in hospital settings.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adult patients admitted to a general hospital.
• Blood samples were tested for the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B antibody (anti-HBs).
• Clinical data was reviewed to identify symptomatic hepatitis B cases.

Main Results:

• 1.5% of surveyed patients tested positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg).
• 22% of patients had detectable hepatitis B antibody (anti-HBs), indicating past or current infection/vaccination.
• The majority of patients with HBsAg did not exhibit clinical signs of hepatitis, underscoring the prevalence of subclinical infections.

Conclusions:

• A significant proportion of hospitalized adults may harbor unrecognized hepatitis B infections.
• Routine screening for hepatitis B antigen in all hospital admissions is crucial for identifying asymptomatic carriers.
• Implementing universal screening protocols can aid in preventing hepatitis B transmission within healthcare settings and the community.