Extrahepatic Manifestations of Hepatitis B

AbstractPurpose of ReviewHepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global public health issue. While cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma commonly affect patients with chronic HBV, extrahepatic manifestations are often unappreciated.Recent FindingsExtrahepatic manifestations can be variable in presentation but include several commonly described syndromes including HBV-related nephropathy, vasculitides, dermatitis, and arthritis. However, recently described entities include hematologic and neurologic manifestations.SummaryThe primary immune-mediated mechanism common to many extrahepatic manifestations involves viral antigen-triggered immune complex formation. Initiation of antiviral treatment is associated with clinical response in most cases of extrahepatic disease; thus, recognition of these manifestations is essential to mitigating associated morbidity and mortality.
Source: Current Hepatitis Reports - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research