Prevalence and Risk Factors of Significant Hepatic Fibrosis in Omani Patients with HBeAg-negative Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection: A Retrospective Study.

Objectives: Hepatic fibrosis remains a potential complication for hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The affected individuals, known as inactive HBV carriers, tend to have a favorable prognosis. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of significant fibrosis and associated risk factors among Omani patients diagnosed as inactive HBV carriers.

Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on Omani inactive HBV carriers visiting a tertiary hospital in Muscat, Oman, between January 2017 and December 2018. Significant hepatic fibrosis (stage F2 or higher) was identified using two-dimensional shear-wave elastography, with baseline clinical, laboratory, and radiological data analyzed for associations.

Results: Among the selected 200 participants (mean age = 44.6 ± 9.3 years), 53.0% were male. Significant fibrosis was present in 40 (20.0%) patients, with a preponderance of male (p =0.007) and those aged ≥ 60 years (p =0.024). Fatty changes, as detected by liver ultrasound, were independent risk factors (p =0.044).

Conclusions: The findings underscore the importance of periodic assessment and monitoring of inactive HBV carriers in Oman, particularly those with risk factors for fibrosis progression, such as male sex, older age, and fatty liver. Non-invasive tests can aid in early detection and management of fibrosis, thereby improving patient outcomes.