High Prevalence of Active HDV Infection Among HBsAg-Positive Patients in Urban and Rural Areas in Gabon: A Cross-Sectional Retrospective Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

HDV, a defective virus dependent on hepatitis B for assembly, can lead to severe liver diseases and an increased risk of progressing to complications such as hepatocellular carcinoma. Given the high prevalence of HDV in Gabon, especially in central Africa, understanding the epidemiology and associated risks is crucial.

Aim

This study aimed to assess the serological and molecular features of HDV among HBsAg-positive patients in the urban and rural areas of Gabon.

Method

The study was conducted from April 2019 to December 2022 in the Franceville area and from January to June 2023 in the Libreville area. We enrolled 145 newly diagnosed HBsAg-positive individuals in Franceville (101) and Libreville (44). Plasma samples were collected for serological and molecul

SUBMITTER: Bivigou-Mboumba B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12836873 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature