Hepatitis B virus infection in children

Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol. 2012 Jun;36(3):291-3. doi: 10.1016/j.clinre.2012.03.021. Epub 2012 Apr 21.

Abstract

Hepatitis B can develop in less than 5% of neonates of infected mothers, despite neonatal serovaccination. Most children will develop a chronic hepatitis. Most children are in an immune-tolerant or in an inactive phase. Interferon is the treatment of choice, in the rare cases where it is necessary.

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Carrier State
  • Child
  • DNA, Viral / blood
  • Female
  • Hepatitis B / immunology
  • Hepatitis B / transmission
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / blood
  • Hepatitis B e Antigens / blood
  • Hepatitis B, Chronic / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis B, Chronic / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Immune Tolerance
  • Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical
  • Interferons / therapeutic use
  • Pregnancy
  • Watchful Waiting

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • DNA, Viral
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens
  • Hepatitis B e Antigens
  • Interferons