Persistence of Free HBV DNA in Body Secretions and Liver Despite Loss of Serum HBV DNA After Interferon-Induced Seroconversion

Following interferon therapy, a chronic hepatitis B (HBV) carrier lost all serum markers of active viral replication and became anti‐HBe positive but remained positive for free and replicative HBV‐DNA in semen, saliva, urine, and liver four months later. At 12 months, when he also developed anti‐HBs, urine and saliva analysed for free HBV‐DNA were positive. Despite histological remission and loss of HBV‐DNA from serum, the potential for transmission of HBV and reactivation of disease remain.