Epidemiological profile and degree of fibrosis in chronic carriers of the hepatitis B virus

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic hepatitis B virus can evolve with serious complications, such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The assessment of liver fibrosis can be performed by direct (liver biopsy) and indirect (APRI/FIB-4) invasive methods. Objective: To describe the epidemiological profile and analyze the degree of hepatic fibrosis in individuals with chronic inactive (Group 1) and compensated (Group 2) chronic hepatitis B. Methods: Cross-sectional study using data from 200 individuals with chronic hepatitis B, between March and August 2022. Results: Of the 200 individuals, 65% were chronically inactive and 35% were active, HBeAg negative. In the first, there was a predominance of females (54.6%), and in the second, males (57.1%). For both, the median age was 53.5 and the majority was of mixed race. Unknown alcoholism history was more frequent in Group 1 (54%), and absent (51%) in Group 2. Mean TGO, TGP and platelets were similar in both groups (p=0.48; 0.91; 0 .59). The mean APRI fibrosis was 0.32 in both groups (p=0.90). The FIB4 was 1.28/1.25 for both groups. The ultrasound evaluation showed normality in 60% of the two groups. Only 0.8%/3.1% of Group 1 had APRI/FIB4 compatible with advanced liver fibrosis (F3-F4). In Group 2, there was a low frequency of advanced liver disease. Conclusion: The epidemiological profile and fibrosis scores in both groups were similar. The prospect of stopping the use of antivirals may be a future alternative.