This app has been produced with the intent that users access it for guidance and to confirm the contents with their specialists. Being a stand-alone, noninteractive solution, some of the contents may be affected by updates in research. At the time of its production, we have made attempts to present the current guidance for the care of hepatitis B patients as per international standards such as:
1. https://www.aasld.org/practice-guidelines/chronic-hepatitis-b
2. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241549059
FIB-4 calculator has been used for evaluation of liver stiffness in patients with Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Its use for patients with chronic hepatitis B is limited to detecting fibrosis with an accuracy of above 2.0 based on recent research (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5410276/).
If in doubt, users are encouraged to confirm their suspicion with their physicians.
A summary of what is contained in this app is given below:
During my several years of practice within the field of hepatology, I have always been challenged by the many questions and confusions that many patients, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals experience. In the wake of the above, there has always been the need to bring out a simple information-based management strategy that is easily applicable to those that are affected by hepatitis B. I aim to highlight the different sections of this app here:
Tutorial page
The first section of the app shows a display of expandable learning modules.
After the introduction, there are 6 modules that cover basic definitions to the monitoring of the treatment of hepatitis B. Each module has learning outcomes and ends with a summary. These modules were derived from international guidelines that are applicable to centers that have high endemicity for hepatitis B.
Serology page
Interpreting hepatitis B serology is never easy.
Here, users can check the results of outcomes of a combination of hepatitis B serology and then determine what status of the infection. This is key in deciding on treatment and or follow-up.
Fibrosis calculator
Noninvasive fibrosis markers are not only replacing liver biopsy but are also convenient in following up patients. These are based on simple clinical parameters and without risks to patients. In this app is placed the FIB-4 score tool, which is handy for use by those who install the app.
(check reference for more info https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5410276/)
Treatment decisions
A flow chart by the simple response to guides, within this section, can support the users of this app to decide on whether treatment is due or not. It should be understood by the installer of this app the fact that a specialist decision is always important in the treatment of hepatitis B. If you decide to use this app to start your treatment rather than engage with your liver specialist, you may be doing this at your own risk. Worthy Works Ltd cannot be held responsible for embarking on self-treatment based on information contained in this app.
Quiz
The app ends with a quiz; based on the information contained in the learning modules. Recent updates on the management of hepatitis B were taken into consideration whilst making the quizzes, based on my experience and use of guidelines. (https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241549059)
Enjoy it and share the word with your peers.
Thanks.