Grading: 1C In a pregnant HIV-positive woman, newly diagnosed with HBV (HBsAg-positive on antenatal screening or diagnosed preconception), baseline hepatitis B markers (hepatitis B core antibody/HBeAg status) and level of the virus (HBV DNA), degree of inflammation and synthetic function (ALT, aspartate transaminase, albumin, INR), assessment of fibrosis, and exclusion of additional causes of liver disease (e.g. haemochromatosis, autoimmune hepatitis) are indicated. Additionally, patients should be assessed for the need for HAV (HAV IgG antibody) immunization as well as for HDV coinfection (HDV serology). Fibroscan
is contraindicated during pregnancy, so where there is suspicion of advanced liver disease, ultrasound scanning should be performed. It is important where cirrhosis is found to be selleck chemicals present that there is close liaison with the hepatologist because of a significantly increased rate of complications: additionally,
acute liver failure can occur on reactivation of HBV disease if anti-HBV treatment is discontinued [168]. However, in the absence of decompensated disease and with HAART incorporating anti-HBV drugs and close monitoring, most women with cirrhosis do not have obstetric complications from their HBV infection. Because of the risk of ARV-related hepatotoxicity and a hepatitis flare from immune reconstitution, it is important to repeat LFTs at 2 weeks post-initiation of cART. Through pregnancy, it is routine to monitor BTK inhibitor LFT tests at each antenatal clinic appointment as a marker for potential obstetric complications (HELLP, pre-eclampsia, acute fatty liver, etc.), particularly in the final trimester. Finally, in those diagnosed late and not receiving HBV treatment incorporated into HAART, LFT flares may be seen shortly after delivery, which in some relates to HBeAg seroconversion and reappearance or a marked increase in
HBV DNA levels. Where acute HBV has been diagnosed, there are no data to support management and each case needs to be managed with specialist advice. Data suggest that lamivudine, as part of HAART, does not completely protect against the development of acute HBV infection, although it is unknown whether this is also the case with tenofovir Methane monooxygenase with or without lamivudine/emtricitabine. Although there is a theoretical risk of high HBV DNA levels and the linked association with increased risk of transmission combined with the potential for acute hepatitis and threat to maternal and fetal health, the presumption would be that this would be abrogated by the patient already being on HAART incorporating tenofovir and either emtricitabine or lamivudine. 6.1.4 Where pegylated interferon or adefovir is being used to treat HBV in a woman who does not yet require HIV treatment and who discovers she is pregnant, treatment should be switched to a tenofovir-based HAART regimen.