RESUMO
Eighty-eight asymptomatic HBsAg carriers were examined for cellular and humoral immunity and markers of virus B hepatitis in liver tissue and blood serum. The following results were obtained: HBsAg and HBcAg in liver tissue were found in 10 and 19 out of the 24 examinees, respectively, HBeAg and anti-Hbe in blood serum in 2 and 20 out of the 25 examinees, respectively. No alterations were recorded on the part of humoral immunity. Changes in cellular immunity manifested themselves by reduction in the number of T lymphocytes, and decreased response to PHA. Sensitization to HBsAg led to the purification of hepatitis B virus whereas the presence of simultaneous sensitization to liver-specific lipoprotein contributed to development of graver patterns of liver injury. The role of the immune system and hepatitis B virus itself in the pathogenesis of liver injury in asymptomatic HBsAg carriers is discussed.
