A Prevalence of evidence of HBV exposure using conventional markers (Anti HBs and Anti HBc) in sero-negative partner of HBV Sero-discordant couples

Background and Aim: Occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is an incompletely understood condition. There no data about occult HBV in sero-discordant couples. We attempted to find out the prevalence of OBI this cohort formulate guidelines for vaccination. Methods: 40 couples were enrolled. DNA (quantitative), Anti HBc HBs titre (quantitative) done. was defined as positivity without detectable DNA. Results: Prevalence found 19 (47.5%) subjects. LFT fibro elastography scores normal. 22 (55%) subjects had raised titres anti-HBs other seromarkers negative suggesting that they vaccinated adequate titres. 12(30%) positive anti-HBc suggestive remote resolved with acquired immunity. 12(63.16%) total who immunity against infection. Conclusions: Evidence (present or past) 19(47.5%) HBsAg partners. However AST, ALT fibroscan score all these individuals normal undetectable them definite clinical significance finding our study. Vaccinating only Anti-HBc patients selectively does not seem be any cost benefit provide additional benefit.