Hepatitis B is transmitted primarily through blood transfusions, contaminated needles, sexual contact, and vertical transmission from mother to child. The prevalence of the virus varies globally, with higher rates observed in Africa, Asia, and South America. Only a small percentage of those infected exhibit symptoms, with many remaining asymptomatic. Acute hepatitis B can progress to a chronic form, which is associated with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Coinfection with hepatitis D virus (HDV) often results in more severe disease. Diagnosis is made through serologic and molecular biological tests. Pregnant women should be screened for hepatitis B virus (HBV) to prevent transmission to newborns. While acute hepatitis B is typically managed symptomatically, chronic cases may require treatment with interferon-alpha or nucleoside/nucleotide analogs. Antiviral therapy during pregnancy presents challenges. Vaccination is recommended for newborns of HBV-positive mothers to confer protection against both HBV and HDV. Generally, prevention efforts should focus on screening, vaccination, and avoidance of risk factors.

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Hepatitis B and D

  • Ioannis Mylonas

摘要

Hepatitis B is transmitted primarily through blood transfusions, contaminated needles, sexual contact, and vertical transmission from mother to child. The prevalence of the virus varies globally, with higher rates observed in Africa, Asia, and South America. Only a small percentage of those infected exhibit symptoms, with many remaining asymptomatic. Acute hepatitis B can progress to a chronic form, which is associated with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Coinfection with hepatitis D virus (HDV) often results in more severe disease. Diagnosis is made through serologic and molecular biological tests. Pregnant women should be screened for hepatitis B virus (HBV) to prevent transmission to newborns. While acute hepatitis B is typically managed symptomatically, chronic cases may require treatment with interferon-alpha or nucleoside/nucleotide analogs. Antiviral therapy during pregnancy presents challenges. Vaccination is recommended for newborns of HBV-positive mothers to confer protection against both HBV and HDV. Generally, prevention efforts should focus on screening, vaccination, and avoidance of risk factors.