Clustering of Different Subtypes of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen in Families of Patients with Chronic Liver Diseases
Journal
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
Journal Volume
69
Journal Issue
5
Pages
559-564
Date Issued
1978
Author(s)
Sung, J.-L.
Abstract
Clustering of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) with both subtypes adr and adw in three families of patients with chronic liver diseases or hepatocellular carcinoma was demonstrated in Taiwan where adw is the main subtype. The subtype in the children was similar to that in their mothers, suggesting maternal transmission. In all the family units clustered with different subtypes, the same pattern occurred, invariably with fathers carring HBsAg/adr and the children canying HBsAg/adw, The subtype difference clearly rules out the transmission of hepatitis B virns (HBV) from father. Horizontal infection with the locally dominant adw‐subtyped HBV in the children of fathers carrying HBsAg/adr explains the discrepanc) of the snbtypes in these families. Clustering of two HBsAg‐positive brothers with hepatocelhilar carcinoma in one of the families was found. That both adr‐subtyped and adw‐subtyped HBV are capable of inducing chronic active hepatitis in another family suggests tliat host factors are probably more important in determining the clinieal course of HBV infection. Copyright © 1978, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved
SDGs
Type
journal article