Occult Hepatitis B Virus(HBV)Infection(OBI)
10.13865/j.cnki.cjbmb.2025.07.1117
- VernacularTitle:隐匿性乙型肝炎病毒感染
- Author:
Yong-Zhen LIU
1
;
Hao LIAO
;
Feng-Min LU
Author Information
1. 南京大学医学院模式动物研究所,南京 210061
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
hepatitis B virus(HBV);
occult hepatitis B virus infection(OBI);
functional cure;
hepa-titis B surface antigen(HBsAg)
- From:
Chinese Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
2025;41(9):1246-1256
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Occult hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection(OBI)represents a potential reservoir for HBV transmission,capable of spreading through routes such as blood transfusion.Additionally,OBI can con-tribute to the chronic progression of hepatitis B-related diseases,sustaining a state of chronic HBV infec-tion.In individuals with compromised immune function or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy,OBI may lead to HBV re-activation,potentially triggering severe liver conditions such as acute hepatitis or liv-er failure.As a result,OBI poses a significant public health challenge,profoundly impacting the health and well-being of affected populations and complicating HBV infection control efforts in China.Clinically diagnosing OBI remains challenging,but its hallmark is serum hepatitis B surface antigen negative and the presence of HBV covalently closed circular DNA(cccDNA)in the liver.With the increasing focus on achieving functional cure for chronic hepatitis B,both domestic and international guidelines have re-fined functional cure.Notably,these guidelines acknowledge that cccDNA may persist in the liver tissue of individuals who have achieved functional cure,suggesting resemblance of an occult infection state.Here,we provide a comprehensive overview of OBI,including its definition,classification,public health implications,underlying mechanisms,and clinical reactivation.By updating the understanding of OBI,we aim to raise awareness among clinicians and public health professionals regarding the significance of OBI in the current context and encourage greater attention to this population.
