[Epidemiology and clinical aspects of chronic hepatitis B and non-A, non-B virus infections].

Abstract

Hepatitis B and Non-A-non-B infections often become chronic and proceed to cirrhosis associated with a shortened life expectancy. Both infections are transmitted by parenteral or sexual routes. New insights in the structure of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) as well as in the immune response mechanism of the organism permit by serological testing a clear definition of the replicative state of the virus. Together with the parameters of inflammation (e.g. transaminases, liver histology) it is possible to determine the activity of the hepatitis. The most effective treatment of chronic HBV-infection today is the therapy with alpha- or beta-interferon. The aim of this treatment is the inhibition of HBV replication and accellerated elimination of the virus, indicated by seroconversion of HBEAg to anti-HBEAg. The most significant advance in the knowledge of percutaneous Non-A-non-B hepatitis is the identification of the responsible virus and the development of a diagnostic test for its serological detection. Since this type of hepatitis becomes chronic in 50-60% of the cases, therapy is urgently required. Clinical studies showed that also for Non-A-non-B virus infection alpha-interferon is most effective. Currently the optimal dosage, duration and point in time for interferon treatment is being evaluated.

• Authors: W Stremmel, G Strohmeyer
• Journal: Leber, Magen, Darm (Leber Magen Darm) Vol. 19 Issue 5 Pg. 231-2, 235-8, 241-4 (Sep 1989) ISSN: 0300-8622 [Print] Germany
• Vernacular Title: Epidemiologie und Klinik der chronischen Hepatitis-B- und Non-A-non-B-Virusinfektionen.
• PMID: 2509833 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article, Review)

Topics

• Follow-Up Studies
• Hepatitis B (diagnosis, transmission)
• Hepatitis C (diagnosis, transmission)
• Hepatitis, Chronic (diagnosis)
• Hepatitis, Viral, Human (diagnosis)
• Humans
• Risk Factors