Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is a very peculiar virus that shares many characteristics with plant viroids. One of its unique characteristics is the requirement for the presence of a helper virus for its replication, and in particular enveloping its virion, a role often played by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Infection with HDV is frequently associated with more severe disease, which may present with fulminant hepatitis or a more rapid progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), when compared to HBV mono-infection. HDV exhibits many peculiarities and enigmas, which have led to it being considered a neglected virus. This review aims to identify the most important gaps in knowledge and peculiarities in the study of this enigmatic virus, from virology to clinical implications.
Source: Viruses
DOI: 10.3390/v18020244
Language: English
Topic: Hepatitis B Virus Studies
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W7128904592