CHRONIC HEPATITIS B VIRUS INFECTION: WHERE WE ARE NOW

Abstract

In this review, we provide an overlook of the current international and national status of chronic hepatitis B and we report as well some preliminary data based on our own experience. Nowadays, various markers (HBsAg, HBeAg, HBeAb, and HBsAb) are used for diagnosing hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and its multiple stages. New markers, such as circulating microRNAs, are being used to improve the prognosis of the disease. The latest molecular technologies allowed the identification of HLA genes associated with chronic hepatitis B.