Exploring awareness and prevalence of chronic viral hepatitis in a UK based Nepali population - lessons learned for future models in engaging migrant communities.

Introduction: The burden of chronic viral hepatitis (CVH) in the UK Nepali population is unknown. We aimed to determine knowledge of liver disease (LD) and prevalence of CVH in this community.

Methods: This was a mixed method (qualitative and quantitative) study guided by a multidisciplinary stakeholder group.

Breastfeeding and chronic HBV infection: clinical and social implications.

Mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is among the most important causes of chronic HBV infection and is the commonest mode of transmission worldwide. Currently, the presence of HBsAg, HBeAg and HBV DNA in breast milk is confirmed. Several studies have reported that breastfeeding carries no additional risk that might lead to vertical transmission.

Epstein-Barr virus: silent companion or causative agent of chronic liver disease?

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has an important and multifaceted role in liver pathology. As a member of the herpes virus family, EBV establishes a persistent infection in more than 90% of adults. Besides acute hepatitis during primary infection, many clinical syndromes of interest for the hepatologist are associated with EBV infection.

Isoprinosine affects serum cytokine levels in healthy adults.

Isoprinosine is a synthetic purine derivative with immunomodulatory and antiviral properties, which result from an apparent in vivo enhancement of host immune responses. To evaluate the serum levels of certain cytokines during and after isoprinosine treatment, we assigned 10 healthy volunteers to receive isoprinosine 1 g, 3 times daily, 5 consecutive days weekly. Both treatment and follow-up phase last 3 weeks.

Chronic Epstein-Barr virus-related hepatitis in immunocompetent patients.

Aim: To investigate reactivated Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection as a cause for chronic hepatitis.

Methods: Patients with occasionally established elevated serum aminotransferases were studied. HIV, HBV and HCV-infections were excluded as well as any other immunosuppressive factors, metabolic or toxic disorders.