Natural history of chronic hepatitis B

Abstract

In this article, the 4 phases of chronic HBV infection are reviewed and the factors that are associated with disease progression and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cirrhosis are discussed. Also discussed is what is known to date about how to identify persons at the highest risk of developing HCC and/or cirrhosis. Finally, ways in which the natural history can be altered by hepatitis B vaccination and identification, close monitoring, and appropriate treatment of chronically infected individuals are reviewed.