Published online Mar 25, 2024. doi: 10.5501/wjv.v13.i1.89104
Peer-review started: October 20, 2023
First decision: November 21, 2023
Revised: December 27, 2023
Accepted: January 24, 2024
Article in press: January 24, 2024
Published online: March 25, 2024
Processing time: 143 Days and 1.7 Hours
Reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a well-known risk that can occur spontaneously or following immunosuppressive therapies, including cancer chemotherapy. HBV reactivation can cause significant morbidity and even mortality, which are preventable if at-risk individuals are identified through screening and started on antiviral prophylaxis.
To determine the prevalence of chronic HBV (CHB) and occult HBV infection (OBI) among oncology and hematology-oncology patients undergoing chemo
In this observational study, the prevalence of CHB and OBI was assessed among patients receiving chemotherapy. Serological markers of HBV infection [hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)/anti-hepatitis B core antigen (HBc)] were evaluated for all patients. HBV DNA levels were assessed in those who tested negative for HBsAg but positive for total anti-HBc.
The prevalence of CHB in the study cohort was determined to be 2.3% [95% confidence interval (95%CI): 1.0-4.2]. Additionally, the prevalence of OBI among the study participants was found to be 0.8% (95%CI: 0.2-2.3).
The findings of this study highlight the importance of screening for hepatitis B infection in oncology and hematology-oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy. Identifying individuals with CHB and OBI is crucial for implementing appropriate antiviral prophylaxis to prevent the reactivation of HBV infection, which can lead to increased morbidity and mortality.
Core Tip: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, a significant risk for individuals undergoing immunosuppressive therapy such as cancer chemotherapy, can lead to preventable morbidity and mortality. Our observational study determined the prevalence of chronic HBV (CHB) infection and occult HBV infection (OBI) in oncology and hematology-oncology patients receiving chemotherapy. Our results showed a 2.3% prevalence of CHB and 0.8% prevalence of OBI in our study cohort, underscoring the critical importance of routinely screening oncology and hematology-oncology patients for HBV infection. Identifying those with CHB and OBI is vital for promptly initiating antiviral prophylaxis, which can prevent the reactivation of HBV infection.