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[Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Low infection rate in premature and full-term neonates following multiple transfusions]
1Kinderklinik, Johannes-Gutenberg-Universität, Mainz.
Insights
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is uncommon in children receiving multiple blood transfusions. Follow-up showed a low incidence of HCV, suggesting improved testing may reveal more cases.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the primary cause of non-A, non-B post-transfusion hepatitis.
- Limited data exists on HCV infection rates in pediatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of HCV infection in children who received poly-transfusions.
- To assess the long-term serological status of HCV in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 262 children receiving poly-transfusions between 1979-1983 were tested for anti-HCV antibodies using first-generation enzyme immunoassay.
- Follow-up testing was conducted approximately 6.5 years later.
Main Results:
- Initial testing revealed a 5.3% (14/262) positive rate for anti-HCV antibodies.
- At follow-up (mean age 9.8 years), 1% (3/15) of initially positive children remained seropositive, with normal liver enzymes.
Conclusions:
- Neonatal poly-transfusion is associated with a low incidence of HCV infection.
- The actual prevalence of HCV may be underestimated due to limitations of early serological tests and the potential for PCR detection.
Background:
Nearly all cases of non-A, non-B post-transfusion hepatitis are caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV). Data for HCV infection in childhood are limited.
Methods:
262 Children who received poly-transfusion between 1979 and 1983 were re-examined at a mean age of 3.5 years for HCV infection using an first-generation enzyme immunoassay to detect anti-HCV antibodies.
Results:
14 of 262 children had positive anti-HCV titers (5.3%), 7 of them showed border line results. In further two patients HCV infection was suspected by clinical means, but initial serology was not available. 6.5 years later, 15 of these 16 children were re-examined at a mean age of 9.8 years. All had normal liver enzymes and positive anti-HCV serology was shown in 3 patients (1%).
Conclusions:
This study demonstrates a low incidence of HCV infection after poly-transfusion during neonatal age. The rate of HCV infection may be even higher, if other more specific tests for HCV serology or PCR will be routinely available in the near future.