Research Article

The Course of HBcAb as A Surrogate Marker for Occult Hepatitis B Infection: A Population Based Survey In Rivers State Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI), characterized by the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in the absence of  detectable hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), poses a significant public health challenge globally. particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where the prevalence of the infection is steadily rising. Nigeria has been shown to have one of the highest endemic rates of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the world, with estimates indicating that over 20 million people are chronically infected. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of OBI among residents of Rivers State, Nigeria, and examine its association with demographic and clinical factors. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult residents aged 18 years and above in selected communities across Rivers State. Demographic information and blood samples were collected from participants, and serum samples were tested for HBsAg and hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the prevalence of OBI and its association with age, sex, marital status, education level, and HIV status. Results: Among the 392 participants included in the study, the prevalence of OBI was found to be 2.8%. HBcAb positivity was identified as a sensitive marker for OBI detection, with 90.9% of OBI cases testing positive for HBcAb alone. While age, sex, marital status, and education level did not emerge as significant predictors of OBI prevalence, HIV co-infection was strongly associated with OBI (p< 0.05). Conclusion: This study highlights the epidemiology of OBI among residents of Rivers State, Nigeria, and underscores the clinical significance of OBI in the context of co-infections and disease progression. The findings emphasize the importance of integrated screening and management strategies for OBI, particularly among individuals living with HIV. Moving forward, comprehensive hepatitis B surveillance and control programs are warranted to address the burden of OBI and improve public health outcomes in Nigeria.

Keywords: HBcAb, HIV co-infection, Nigeria, Occult hepatitis B infection, Prevalence.

Cite as: R. Nwalozie, L.S. Danagogo, J.A. Kareem, and B.A. Nnokam. The Course of HBcAb as A Surrogate Marker for Occult Hepatitis B Infection: A Population Based Survey In Rivers State Nigeria. Journal of Applied Health Sciences and Medicine, 4(10):7-12, 2024. https://doi.org/10.58614/jahsm4102