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[The role of HCV in the pathogenesis of post-transfusion hepatitis]
1Orvostovábbképzó Egyetem Szív és Ersebészeti Klinika, Budapest.
Insights
Hepatitis C virus infection was identified in 59 patients after open heart surgery. A prothrombin complex concentrate used during surgery is the likely source, highlighting risks associated with blood products.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Transfusion Medicine
Background:
- Hepatitis C is a significant public health concern.
- Bloodborne viral infections pose risks in healthcare settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the source of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in patients undergoing open heart surgery.
- To identify potential risk factors for post-operative hepatitis C.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 462 open heart surgery patients between January 1987 and April 1988.
- Screening for icteric hepatitis and anti-HCV positivity using the Ortho anti-HCV test.
- Investigation into the potential sources of viral transmission.
Main Results:
- 83 patients presented with icteric hepatitis.
- 59 patients tested positive for anti-HCV, indicating HCV infection.
- A prothrombin complex concentrate administered during surgery was identified as the probable source of infection.
Conclusions:
- Prothrombin complex concentrate can be a source of bloodborne hepatitis C transmission.
- Careful screening and handling of blood products are crucial to prevent viral transmission.
- Further research into the safety of blood-derived products is warranted.
Abstract:
Between January 1987 and April 1988 following 462 open heart surgery operations, 83 patients with icteric hepatitis were seen. Among them 59 patients were anti-HCV positive with the Ortho anti-HCV test, these findings suggested a hepatitis C virus infection. The source of viral infection was searched, and a prothrombin complex concentrate which had been used during that period, seemed to be the potential cause of bloodborne hepatitis C. The results suggest that special care is required when using such blood products.