title: Detection of hepatitis B virus in the aqueous humor of a hepatitis B virus carrier.
abstract: The prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is particularly high in Asian countries, including Taiwan. Previous studies have reported detection of HBV surface antigens in tears and aqueous humor of HBV-seropositive individuals, suggesting that ophthalmologists may be at risk of contracting HBV infection by treatment of such patients. Herein we report the case of an asymptomatic Taiwanese HBV patient in whom HBV was detected in aqueous humor using PCR. To our knowledge this is the first report of HBV detection in aqueous humor by PCR. Eye care providers should take all necessary precautions when treating individuals who have or are at high risk of being infected with HBV.
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei City Hospital, Taiwan, ROC.
authors.forename: Ching-Yao
authors.initials: CY
authors.lastname: Tsai
authors.forename: Chih-Lin
authors.initials: CL
authors.lastname: Lin
authors.forename: Shiao-Cheng
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Lin
authors.forename: Shiow-Wen
authors.initials: SW
authors.lastname: Liou
mesh_terms: D001082:Aqueous Humor / Q000821:virology*; D002353:Carrier State; D002387:Cataract Extraction; D005260:Female; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000635:transmission; D006515:Hepatitis B virus / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control; D017758:Infectious Disease Transmission, Patient-to-Professional / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009885:Ophthalmology; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors