Hepatitis B in pregnancy – Review of literature and guideline proposal

Abstract

Vertical mother-to-fetus transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a concern of public health global policies. The transmission rate can be substantially influenced by the good function of the maternal screening programs and by the vaccination of newborns as well. Also, the appropriate treatment of pregnant women and the administration of anti-HBV immunoglobulin immediately after birth come up with the decrease of HBV transmission rate. Acute viral hepatitis during pregnancy constitutes the main cause of jaundice recognized in pregnant women. It has generally a mild course during pregnancy, without significantly influencing the health state of the mother. In the context of immunological adaptation in pregnancy, the condition of the pregnant woman with chronic HBV infection without notable hepatic dysfunction generally has a good evolution. However, there are some possible clinical consequences like hepatic flares and progression of liver disease. The paper presents a review of literature and guideline proposals to prevent vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus and to provide the best possible care for pregnant women with hepatitis B infection.