HBVassociated

HBV-associated refers to diseases and conditions linked to infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV is a partially double-stranded DNA virus in the Hepadnaviridae family that primarily infects hepatocytes. Acute HBV infection may resolve, but chronic infection can develop, increasing the risk of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. HBV-associated diseases include hepatic disorders caused by ongoing viral replication and immune-mediated liver injury, as well as extrahepatic conditions related to immune complex deposition and systemic inflammation.

Common hepatic manifestations include chronic hepatitis B, cirrhosis, and HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma. Diagnosis relies on serology (HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc), HBV DNA quantification, liver-function tests, imaging, and sometimes liver biopsy. Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma is recommended in patients with cirrhosis or chronic infection.

Management centers on suppressing HBV replication with antiviral therapy such as tenofovir or entecavir, which can reduce liver inflammation and delay progression. Vaccination prevents HBV infection and is a key preventive strategy. In some settings, vaccination of contacts and screening of at-risk populations help reduce transmission.

Extrahepatic HBV-associated diseases include immune-complex–mediated glomerulonephritis (such as membranous nephropathy and membranoproliferative GN), polyarteritis nodosa, and cryoglobulinemia. Diagnosis may involve urinalysis, renal biopsy, and serology. Treatment may combine antiviral therapy to suppress HBV with disease-specific therapies, balancing infection risk and immunosuppression.

Prognosis varies with liver disease stage and response to antiviral therapy. HBV-associated conditions may improve with viral suppression, but chronic HBV infection requires ongoing monitoring and, in many cases, long-term antiviral treatment. Public health measures, including vaccination and harm-reduction strategies, help reduce the burden of HBV-associated disease.