Which of the following statements concerning hepatitis infection in pregnancy is true?:
(A) Hepatitis B core antigen status is the most sensitive indicator of positive vertical transmission of disease (B) Hepatitis B is the most common form of hepatitis after blood transfusion (C) The proper treatment of infants born to infected mothers includes the administration of hepatitis B immune globulin as well as vaccine (D) Patients who develop chronic active hepatitis should undergo MTP
(C) Persons at increased risk of hepatitis B infection include homosexuals, abusers of intravenous drugs, healthcare personnel, and people who have received blood or blood products.
However, because of intensive screening of blood for type B hepatitis, hepatitis C has become the major form of hepatitis after blood transfusion. (i.e. option b. incorrect).
The most sensitive indicator of positive vertical transmission of disease is HBe antigen. (i.e. option a. incorrect). The proper treatment of infants born to infected mothers include administration of hepatitis B immune globulin as well as vaccine.
Chronic acute hepatitis does not necessarily warrant therapeutic abortion (i.e. option d. incorrect). Fertility is decreased, but pregnancy may proceed on a normal course as long as steroid therapy is continued. Prematurity and fetal loss are increased, but there is no increase in malformations.