[Early diagnosis and characteristics of the course of HBsAg-positive and HBsAg-negative chronic persistent hepatitis].

As a result of combined examination of 3584 subjects chronic persistent hepatitis (CPH) was revealed in 251 (7.0 per cent) patients; in 140 (55.8 per cent) of them HBsAg was found in blood serum. A comparative analysis of the clinical, biochemical and immunological features of CPH has shown that CPH with the presence of HBsAg in the blood serum was characterized by manifested clinical symptoms and biochemical disorders which were more marked in female patients. These findings contribute to a correct diagnosis, timely medical checkups and adequate treatment and prophylaxis.