Hepatitis B in Pregnancy: Challenges and Treatment

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Gastroenterology Clinics of North America

Volume 40, Issue 2 , Pages 355-372, June 2011.

Hepatitis B in Pregnancy: Challenges and Treatment

Silvia Degli Esposti, MD

Dhvani Shah, BA

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) during pregnancy presents unique management challenges.

Varying aspects of care must be considered, including the effects of HBV on

maternal and fetal health, effects of pregnancy on the course of HBV infection,

treatment of HBV during and after pregnancy, and prevention of perinatal

infection. Antiretroviral therapy has not been associated with increased risk of

birth defects or toxicity, but despite studies designed to elucidate the drug

efficacy and safety in affected individuals and the developing fetus,

recommendations are inconclusive. Clinicians and patients must make

individualized decisions after carefully evaluating the risks and benefits

summarized in this article.

The authors have nothing to disclose.

PII: S0889-8553(11)00023-9

doi:10.1016/j.gtc.2011.03.005

© 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.