The prevalence of HDV among HBsAg-positive populations with and without HIV-1 in China.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Existing research has provided evidence of changes in hepatitis delta virus (HDV) prevalence worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and molecular characteristics of HDV to elucidate its spread in China. METHODS: A total of 3,000 samples were collected from 2,241 HBV monoinfections and 759 HBV/HIV-1 coinfections across 13 sites in northern, southern, western, and southwestern China. Serological and virological prevalence were determined by detecting anti-HDV antibodies and HDV RNA. RESULTS: The study revealed a 2.63% (95% CI 2.06-3.21) seroprevalence of HDV among HBV infections in China, exhibiting regional variation. HDV seroprevalence was notably higher at 7.91% (95% CI 5.98-9.83) in HBV and HIV-1 coinfections. Region and HIV-1 infection were identified as risk factors for HDV infection. Virological prevalence was 0.67% (95% CI 0.38-0.96) in HBV infections and 2.24% (95% CI 1.18-3.29) in HBV/HIV-1 coinfections. The predominant HDV genotype in China was HDV-2a, followed by HDV-1. Participants with anti-HDV positivity demonstrated significantly higher proportions of abnormal liver dysfunction and elevated HBV DNA load (P < 0.001) compared to anti-HDV-negative participants. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the HDV epidemic in China, sheds light on its geographical distribution and high-risk populations, and provides insights for developing strategies to manage the spread of HDV in the country.