Detection of hepatitis B virus in the aqueous humor of a hepatitis B virus carrier.
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.
Tsai
Ching-Yao
CY
Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei City Hospital, Taiwan, ROC.
Lin
Chih-Lin
CL
Lin
Shiao-Cheng
SC
Liou
Shiow-Wen
SW
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