Review Paper:
Hepatitis B Virus:
A Comprehensive Overview of Virology, Transmission and Clinical Management
Durgadevi J. and Manisha Koyimadatha
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 20(11); 331-341;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/2011rjbt3310341; (2025)
Abstract
The Hepatitis B virus (HBV) represents a major public health issue, accountable
for both acute and chronic liver infections that may result in serious complications
including cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver failure. This study
provides a comprehensive overview of HBV including its virology, modes of transmission,
clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment and epidemiology. The primary mode
of transmission is through contact with infectious bodily fluids including blood,
semen and vaginal secretions. Clinical presentations range from asymptomatic infections
to severe acute liver failure and chronic liver disease. Diagnosis involves various
serological and molecular tests, with HBsAg being a critical marker for chronic
infection. Treatment aims to suppress HBV DNA, achieve HBeAg seroconversion, and,
ideally, attain HBsAg seroclearance, although a complete cure is challenging due
to the persistence of cccDNA.
The prevalence of HBV exhibits significant variation epidemiologically, with a notably
high endemic presence in areas including Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa and
lower rates in developed countries. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive
measure, significantly reducing HBV incidence and associated complications. Advances
in antiviral therapies and a better understanding of HBV biology are essential for
improving patient outcomes and managing this pervasive infectious disease.
