Immune-pathological phases of chronic Hepatitis B infections among Sudanese individuals towards personalization of management

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is an immune liver disease affecting millions worldwide. Despite availability of an efficacious vaccine, elimination of HBV infections is aloft. This study aimed to identify the immune-pathological phases of chronic HBV infection (CHBV) among Sudanese individuals to refine management strategies. Materials and methods: In a prospective cross-sectional study and following informed consent, 1593 individuals with HBs Ag reactivity were enrolled. Serum total protein/ albumin, ALT, AST, total bilirubin, HBs Ag/Ab, HBe Ag/Ab, HBc IgM/HBc total antibodies and HBV viral loads were measured. Results: Mean aminotransferase levels for HBs Ag-reactive individuals were significantly higher compared to apparently normal individuals, while the mean total protein and serum albumin were within normal ranges. The majority of HBs Ag-reactive individuals were reactive to total anti-HBc and HBe Ab, while concurrent HBe Ag/Ab reactivity was seen in a minority. Inactive carriers constituted the majority of HBs Ag reactive individuals, while the immune tolerance CHBV phase could not be identified. The reactivation phase had the highest viral load. Conclusion: inactive carrier state is the predominant immune-pathological phase among Chronic HBV Sudanese individuals. Regular follow ups and no oral anti-viral drug treatment as the management of choice to reduce cost, drug-associated toxicities and emergence of resistant strains.