Hepatitis B Overview

Hepatitis B

Vaccination

• Hepatitis B vaccine is the most effective way to prevent infection
• Recommended for all newborns, and for individuals at high risk (healthcare workers, people with chronic liver disease, etc.)
• Vaccine is given in a series of 2-4 doses, depending on age and risk group
• Booster shots may be necessary to maintain immunity

Transmission

• Hepatitis B is primarily spread through:
  • Blood and bodily fluids (sex, sharing needles, etc.)
  • Mother-to-child transmission during birth
  • Contaminated medical equipment
• Can also be spread through:
  • Tattooing and piercing with unsterilized equipment
  • Sharing personal care items (razors, toothbrushes, etc.)
• Casual contact (hugging, kissing, etc.) is not a common mode of transmission

Diagnosis

• Blood tests are used to diagnose hepatitis B:
  • HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen) test: detects presence of the virus
  • Anti-HBs (hepatitis B surface antibody) test: detects immunity
  • Liver function tests (LFTs) and liver biopsy may also be performed

Treatment

• Acute hepatitis B usually resolves on its own
• Chronic hepatitis B requires antiviral medication to manage the infection and prevent liver damage
• Treatment options include:
  • Nucleos(t)ide analogues (e.g. lamivudine, adefovir)
  • Interferon therapy (for some patients)
• Liver transplantation may be necessary for advanced liver disease

Symptoms

• Symptoms may not appear until 2-6 months after infection
• Common symptoms include:
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Dark urine and pale stools
  • Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Some people may not exhibit symptoms at all