Background and practical aspects of hepatitis B surface antigen carrier state.

The prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBSAg) carriers in the Europe and North America 0.1 - 0.2%, but can exceed a few per cent in South-East Asia and Africa. The HBSAg carrier state is considered to be connected with sociaohygienic conditions but it is evident that genetic factors also contribute the chronic carrier state. Practical measures concerning the treatment and management of HBSAg carriers are discussed.