Frequency of Viral Replication Markers in Chronic HBV Carriers in N’Djamena, Chad

Abstract

Introduction: According to the WHO, Chad is located in an area of high endemicity for hepatitis B virus (HBV). The aim of this study was to analyze the virological profiles of chronic HBV carriers. Materials and Method: This was a retrospective and analytical study including outpatients with chronic HBV of any age received in Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology of National General Reference Hospital of N’Djamena from 2013 to 2017. Results: During the study period, 401 chronic hepatitis B virus carriers (mean age was 35 years ± 11 years with sex ratio of 3.26) were seen in outpatient clinic with a frequency of 3.34% (401/11,988). HBeAg (+) patients were 12.8% and HBeAg negative 87.2%. HBeAg-negative patients were significantly older (p = 0.000) than those with HBeAg (+). The mean HBV-DNA level was higher in HBeAg (+) patients. The HBV-DNA level in HBeAg-positive patients was higher than in HBeAg-negative patients with a significant difference (p = 0.043). The mean ALT level was 45 IU/L in HBeAg (−) patients. It was 49 in HBeAg (+) patients. Conclusion: HBeAg (−) chronic hepatitis B is the most predominant form in our study. This observation is important because it can help to adapt the management strategies.