HBV and Hepatitis B Are the Same Thing
HBV (Hepatitis B Virus) and Hepatitis B (Hep B) refer to the same entity—they are simply different ways of naming the same virus and the infection it causes. 1
Understanding the Terminology
HBV is the virus itself, while "Hepatitis B" or "Hep B" refers to both the virus and the disease it causes. 2 These terms are used interchangeably in clinical practice and medical literature. 1
The Virus Characteristics
- HBV is a small DNA virus that belongs to the Hepadnaviridae family and replicates through an RNA intermediate. 2
- The virus can integrate into the host genome and forms covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) in hepatocytes, which persists even with effective antiviral therapy. 3, 4
- HBV is transmitted through perinatal, percutaneous, and sexual exposure, as well as close person-to-person contact through open cuts and sores. 1
- The virus can survive outside the body for prolonged periods, and carriers who are HBeAg positive can shed large quantities of viral particles on environmental surfaces. 1
The Disease Spectrum
Hepatitis B infection leads to a wide spectrum of liver disease ranging from acute hepatitis (including fulminant hepatic failure) to chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. 2, 5
- Acute hepatitis B is defined by discrete onset of symptoms, jaundice or elevated serum ALT levels, and positive HBsAg and hepatitis B core antigen. 5
- Chronic hepatitis B is defined as persistence of HBsAg for more than 6 months. 1, 5
- The risk of developing chronic infection varies by age: 90% in newborns of HBeAg-positive mothers, 25-30% in infants and children under 5, and less than 10% in adults. 1
Clinical Terminology Clarification
In medical documentation, you will see both terms used:
- "HBV infection" typically emphasizes the virological aspect 1, 6
- "Hepatitis B" typically emphasizes the clinical disease manifestation 1
- Both refer to the same pathogen and condition 2, 5
The key serologic marker is HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen), which is the hallmark of HBV infection and the first marker to appear in acute infection. 1, 6 Persistence of HBsAg for more than 6 months indicates chronic HBV infection. 6, 7