The Impact of Hepatitis-B envelope Antigen and Viremia load on Hematological Parameters and Liver enzymes in Chronic HBV Infection

Abstract

Introduction: Hepatitis B viral (HBV) infection is a major cause of chronic liver diseases and failure. While the general impact of HBV on the liver has been extensively studied, there is a relative paucity of information regarding the specific effect of its envelope-antigen (HBeAg) and viremia load on hematopoiesis. Thus, this study aimed to bridge the gap.

Materials and Method: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted between July and October 2024 at Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital, Ile-ife. 73 HBV participants were categorized based on their viremia load and HBeAg status. Standard laboratory procedures were adopted to evaluate various biomarkers. Continuous and categorical data were expressed in mean ± SD and percentage. The study used statistical analysis software, SPSS version 26.

Results: Both HBeAg and high viremia load are associated with transaminase elevation. Lymphocyte and platelet counts were significantly reduced, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (p=0.044) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (p=0.007) were elevated in HBeAg+. On the other hand, platelet count was reduced considerably (p=0.000) with a high viremia state.

Conclusion: HBeAg+ was associated with increased systemic and hepatic necrotic inflammation. However, a high viremia state was only associated with thrombocytopenia. Thus, regular monitoring of hematological parameters is vital to reduce the consequence of extra-hepatic complications.