Hepatitis B: Risks, Vaccination, and Health Monitoring

Q: Hepatitis B: Risks, Vaccination, and Health Monitoring

Reply： Hello, (1) Hepatitis B can be transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse. <br>Although the transmission rate between spouses is not high, it is best to have antibodies to reduce the risk of infection. <br>(2) A. <br>Fatty liver can be classified by severity through

Hepatitis B carrier

(1) Doctor, my boyfriend is a carrier of hepatitis B.
I have had deep kisses and sexual intercourse with him, but I was vaccinated against hepatitis B when I was a child.
Later, I had my antibody levels checked, and the doctor recommended another vaccination for added safety.
Am I still at risk of being infected?
(2) He has been getting checked every six months, and everything is normal, but he has fatty liver.
Is this serious? Also, is his large abdomen related to hepatitis B? If he has regular check-ups every six months and the results are normal, should we not be too worried?
(3) When we go to the hospital for check-ups, will the doctor arrange for all the necessary tests? Or will only some tests be done? For example, if the GOT, GPT, and abdominal ultrasound results are normal, does that mean he doesn't need to take medication? Thank you for your response! Thank you very much...

Yan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/03

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Reply: Hello, (1) Hepatitis B can be transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse.
Although the transmission rate between spouses is not high, it is best to have antibodies to reduce the risk of infection.
(2) A.
Fatty liver can be classified by severity through ultrasound.
Causes of fatty liver include alcohol consumption, obesity, chemical exposure, and lipid metabolism disorders.
Over time, there is also a risk of developing cirrhosis or liver cancer.
B.
The size of the abdomen depends on the patient's condition; some may only be obese, but hepatitis B with ascites or liver cancer can sometimes present with significant abdominal distension.
C.
For healthy carriers, in addition to regular check-ups, it is important to maintain liver health by avoiding excessive fatigue and being cautious with medications.
(3) Regular check-ups for hepatitis B carriers generally include tests for ALT (GPT), AFP, and abdominal ultrasound.
The physician will arrange additional tests based on the patient's condition.
If the GOT, GPT, and abdominal ultrasound results are normal for hepatitis B carriers, current medical advice suggests that medication is not necessary, but regular follow-up is essential.
This response is provided by Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui from the Internal Medicine Department.

Reply Date: 2005/02/03

More Info

Understanding Hepatitis B is crucial, especially when it comes to assessing risks, vaccination, and health monitoring. Your concerns regarding your boyfriend's Hepatitis B status and your own health are valid and deserve thorough attention.

1. Transmission Risks: Since your boyfriend is a Hepatitis B carrier (HBsAg positive), there is a risk of transmission through intimate contact, including kissing and sexual activity. However, since you have received the Hepatitis B vaccine in childhood, you likely have some level of immunity. The presence of antibodies (Anti-HBs) in your system indicates protection against the virus. If your doctor recommended an additional booster shot, it is a precautionary measure to ensure that your immunity remains strong, especially if your antibody levels are low. It is advisable to get tested for Anti-HBs levels to confirm your immunity status. If your levels are adequate, the risk of transmission is significantly reduced, but it is always wise to practice safe sex and consider using barrier methods to further minimize risk.

2. Fatty Liver Disease and Hepatitis B: Your boyfriend's condition of fatty liver (steatosis) can be concerning, especially in the context of Hepatitis B. Fatty liver can be caused by various factors, including obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and metabolic disorders. While not all individuals with Hepatitis B will develop fatty liver, the two conditions can coexist and may complicate each other. The enlargement of the abdomen could be related to fatty liver, but it is essential to differentiate between simple fatty liver and more severe forms, such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can lead to liver damage. Regular monitoring through blood tests and imaging (like abdominal ultrasound) is crucial. If his tests are normal every six months, it indicates that there is no immediate cause for alarm, but he should continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to manage both conditions effectively.

3. Health Monitoring and Check-ups: When visiting a healthcare provider for Hepatitis B management, they typically conduct a comprehensive evaluation that includes liver function tests (like GOT and GPT), viral load tests, and imaging studies such as abdominal ultrasound. These tests help assess liver health and monitor for any complications, including the risk of liver cancer, especially in chronic Hepatitis B patients. If all tests return normal, it may indicate that he does not require antiviral medication at that time. However, it is essential to maintain regular follow-ups, as liver health can change over time. Your boyfriend should also be aware of any symptoms that may arise, such as jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain, and report these to his healthcare provider immediately.

In summary, while your boyfriend's Hepatitis B status and fatty liver condition warrant careful monitoring, your vaccination history provides a layer of protection. Regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are key components in managing these health concerns. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment options.

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