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Current Hepatology Reports
Published in: Current Hepatology Reports 4/2020

01-12-2020 | Hepatitis B | Hepatitis B (JK Lim, Section Editor)

Diagnosis and Management of Occult Hepatitis B Infection

Authors: Brian T. Lee, Ponni V. Perumalswami

Published in: Current Hepatology Reports | Issue 4/2020

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Occult hepatitis B infection refers to the presence of replication-competent hepatitis B virus despite the lack of hepatitis B surface antigen due to epigenetic or immune control. Risk factors for occult hepatitis B infection include sex work, blood transfusion, hemodialysis, and liver transplantation. Historically, the recognition of occult hepatitis B infection has been important in preventing reactivation of hepatitis B infection and mortality in those receiving treatment for HIV and hepatitis C virus along with those receiving immunosuppressive therapy.

Recent Findings

Recognition of occult hepatitis B infection has increased and continues to evolve with improved detection methods in both serum and liver tissue to identify HBV DNA. Advancements in the understanding of genetic variations of hepatitis B have also contributed to the differentiation of overt versus occult hepatitis B infection. More recent research has contributed to the debate that occult hepatitis B infection may play a role in clinical outcomes such as chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Summary

With enhanced awareness of occult hepatitis B and improved methods for detection of HBV DNA and hepatitis B surface antigen, future studies understanding the natural history will shape policy regarding therapeutics and preventive strategies to prevent occult hepatitis B–related morbidity and mortality.
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Metadata
Title
Diagnosis and Management of Occult Hepatitis B Infection
Authors
Brian T. Lee
Ponni V. Perumalswami
Publication date
01-12-2020
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Hepatology Reports / Issue 4/2020
Electronic ISSN: 2195-9595
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11901-020-00549-3

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