Molecular and Serological Detection of Hepatitis B Virus Among Multigravida Pregnant Women in Sobi Specialist Hospital, Ilorin.

ABSTRACT
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) remains a significant public health threat during pregnancy due to its potential for mother-to-child transmission, which can lead to chronic liver disease in infants. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HBV infection among multigravida pregnant women attending antenatal care at Sobi Specialist Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria, using both serological and molecular methods. A total of 68 blood samples were collected from consenting participants. Serological screening for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was carried out using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), while HBV DNA was detected through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) following DNA extraction with the Quick-DNA™ Miniprep Kit (Zymo Research). Agarose gel electrophoresis was used to assess DNA quality and confirm PCR amplification. Sociodemographic and clinical histories, including age, vaccination status, previous surgeries, and blood transfusion history, were also recorded. The results revealed an HBsAg seroprevalence of 15.4%, with a higher infection rate among rural dwellers, unvaccinated women, and those with a history of blood transfusion. Only one participant (1.5%) was positive for HBV DNA, indicating a possible occult HBV infection. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating molecular diagnostics into routine antenatal screening to improve early detection of HBV, reduce the risk of perinatal transmission, and support targeted public health interventions aimed at enhancing maternal and neonatal health outcomes in Nigeria.