Occult hepatitis B virus infection among chronic liver disease patients: Insights from a tertiary care hospital

Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI) was detected in 5.3 % of HBsAg-negative chronic liver disease (CLD) patients, primarily among middle-aged males. The findings emphasize the limitations of routine serological testing and advocate for the inclusion of anti HBc screening and HBV DNA testing, particularly in patients with prior blood transfusions. Early identification of OBI is crucial for appropriate clinical management and may help prevent further progression of liver disease in this high-risk group.