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Spectrum of viral hepatitis in thalassemic children receiving multiple blood transfusions

Mohammad Irshad1, Sudhir Peter

  • 1Department of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.

Indian Journal of Gastroenterology : Official Journal of the Indian Society of Gastroenterology
|November 6, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Children with thalassemia receiving frequent blood transfusions have a high risk of hepatitis B and C infections. This study found significant prevalence of hepatitis B and C, and recent hepatitis E infection in this vulnerable pediatric population.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Hematology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Transfusion Medicine

Background:

  • Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder requiring lifelong blood transfusions.
  • Multiple blood transfusions increase the risk of transfusion-transmitted infections, including viral hepatitis.
  • Monitoring hepatitis virus prevalence in transfused pediatric patients is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of hepatitis A, B, C, and E virus infections in children with thalassemia undergoing multiple blood transfusions.
  • To assess the burden of viral hepatitis in this high-risk pediatric group.

Main Methods:

  • Sera from 50 children (aged 5-15 years) with thalassemia, who received over 80 units of blood, were tested for hepatitis virus markers.
  • Tests included markers for hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis E virus (HEV).
  • Hepatitis D virus (HDV) testing was performed on HBV-positive sera.

Main Results:

  • No recent hepatitis A or D virus infection was detected.
  • Hepatitis C virus infection was present in 30% of patients, with 12% having HCV RNA.
  • Hepatitis B virus infection was found in 20% (9% HBsAg-positive, 2% acute HBV).
  • Recent hepatitis E virus infection was documented in 10% of the children.

Conclusions:

  • Thalassemic children receiving multiple blood transfusions are at significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B and C infections.
  • A notable percentage of these children also experienced recent hepatitis E infection.
  • Regular screening for viral hepatitis is essential in pediatric thalassemia patients receiving transfusions.
Abstract

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