Hepatitis B viral load and its association with liver function in chronic hepatitis B virus-positive patients – A retrospective study

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Background: Despite widespread hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination efforts, chronic HBV infection continues to be a major public health concern in India. Elevated HBV viral load has been linked to an increased risk of liver complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In this study, we aim to evaluate HBV DNA viral load in patients with chronic hepatitis B and its association with liver function parameters. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted with chronic hepatitis B patients who tested positive for HBV DNA using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Their liver function profiles, including serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), bilirubin, urea, creatinine, and total protein, were retrieved and analyzed for correlation with viral load. A Mann–Whitney U -test was used to assess gender differences in these biochemical markers. Results: Compared to females, males showed significantly elevated levels of creatinine, total bilirubin, SGOT, SGPT, and total protein ( P < 0.05). However, no significant differences were observed in ALT and urea levels. Trends in HBV positivity and viral load were also presented over a 4-year period. Conclusions: The study highlights a strong association between high HBV DNA load and liver dysfunction. Gender-specific differences in liver enzyme levels among HBV-positive individuals suggest the need for individualized clinical management.