Published online by Cambridge University Press: 17 October 2013
To investigate hepatitis B virus DNA in the cerumen of hepatitis B virus infected patients.
This study comprised 30 confirmed cases of chronic hepatitis B. Patients' serum samples were examined for hepatitis B surface antigen and antibodies using enzyme immunoassay systems. The presence of hepatitis B virus DNA in cerumen was investigated using a polymerase chain reaction test.
All of the samples were positive for hepatitis B surface antigen and negative for hepatitis B surface antibodies. Hepatitis virus DNA was detected in two cerumen samples (6.6 per cent of patients).
Cerumen can be a potential source of transmission of hepatitis B virus.