Hepatitis B virus DNA in peripheral blood leukocytes: A brief review

Abstract

Despite being essentially hepatotropic, hepatitis B virus has frequently been detected in peripheral blood leukocytes. In most cases, viral DNA has been detected by hybridisation, though, occasionally, evidence of viral RNA and virus‐specific proteins has been reported. Though definitive evidence is lacking, it appears likely that the virus is able to replicate in at least a subfraction of these cells. The possible consequences with respect to the transmission and reactivation of virus infections are discussed.