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Risk factors and clinical expression of HCV infection in hemodialysis patients

P Pauri1, G Salvoni, W Vitolo

  • 1Servizio di Virologia Ospedale Regionale Torrette, Ancona, Italy.

Nephron
|January 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody prevalence increased in hemodialysis patients from 16.4% to 21% between 1990 and 1991. Seroconversion incidence was 13.1%, with no significant impact from transfusions or dialysis duration.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hepatology

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) poses a significant risk to patients undergoing hemodialysis.
  • Monitoring HCV prevalence and incidence is crucial in vulnerable patient populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence and incidence of anti-HCV antibodies in a hemodialysis unit.
  • To investigate factors influencing anti-HCV positivity, including transaminase levels, HBV infection, blood transfusions, and dialysis duration.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of patient data from 1990 and 1991.
  • Calculation of HCV antibody prevalence and seroconversion incidence.
  • Comparison of transaminase levels and risk factors between anti-HCV-positive and negative patients.

Main Results:

  • HCV antibody prevalence rose from 16.4% in 1990 to 21% in 1991.
  • The incidence of seroconversion was 13.1%.
  • Transaminase levels and previous HBV infection did not differ significantly between anti-HCV-positive and negative groups. Blood transfusions and dialysis age did not impact anti-HCV positivity.

Conclusions:

  • A rising trend in HCV prevalence was observed in the hemodialysis unit.
  • HCV seroconversion is a concern in this population.
  • Transfusions and dialysis duration were not identified as risk factors for HCV positivity in this study.

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