Complications
Having a chronic HBV infection can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Scarring of the liver (cirrhosis)
The inflammation associated with a hepatitis B infection can lead to extensive liver scarring (cirrhosis), which may impair the liver’s ability to function. - Liver cancer
People with chronic hepatitis B infection have an increased risk of liver cancer. - Liver failure
Acute liver failure is a condition in which the vital functions of the liver shut down. When that occurs, a liver transplant is necessary to sustain life. - Other conditions
People with chronic hepatitis B may develop kidney disease or inflammation of blood vessels.