[Hepatitis B virus infection: diagnosis, clinical sequelae, therapy and prevention].

This article gives an overview on the clinical epidemiology of hepatitis B in Switzerland. It considers structure of the hepatitis B virus, serologic diagnosis of hepatitis B and its prevention and treatment. The main conclusions are as follows: 1. Hepatitis B prophylaxis is available. Juveniles should be vaccinated before taking up sexual activity. Pregnant women should be tested and their offspring immunised actively and passively when there is evidence of infection. 2. In cases of acute hepatitis B contact persons should be tested and vaccinated where appropriate. Treatment is not indicated. 3. For the treatment of chronic hepatitis B interferons and lamivudine are currently available. Advantages and shortfalls of the different forms of treatment are discussed.