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GB virus C/hepatitis G virus infection in Indian blood donors and high-risk groups

Mayura M Desai1, Ramprasad B Pal, Dushyant D Banker

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Sir Hurkisondas Nurrotumdas Medical Research Society, Sir Hurkisondas Nurrotumdas Hospital and Research Centre, Raja Rammohan Roy Road, Mumbai 400004, India. desaimayura@hotmail.com

Transfusion and Apheresis Science : Official Journal of the World Apheresis Association : Official Journal of the European Society for Haemapheresis
|April 6, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis G virus (HGV), also known as GB virus C (GBV-C), showed a low prevalence of 2.24% in at-risk Indian populations. Infections were primarily found in multi-transfused patients and were generally asymptomatic and self-limiting.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Hepatitis G virus (HGV), or GB virus C (GBV-C), identified in 1995, is a potential cause of non-A-E post-transfusion hepatitis.
  • Understanding HGV/GBV-C prevalence is crucial for managing parenteral transmission risks.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of Hepatitis G virus (HGV)/GB virus C (GBV-C) RNA in at-risk populations and healthy controls in India.
  • To investigate co-infections with other parenterally transmitted hepatitis viruses and assess clinical markers in HGV/GBV-C carriers.

Main Methods:

  • Screening of 402 subjects (including multi-transfused patients, hemodialysis patients, and healthy controls) for HBsAg, HCV RNA, and HGV/GBV-C RNA.
  • Analysis of co-infection rates and liver enzyme levels (ALT, alkaline phosphatase) in HGV/GBV-C positive individuals.

Main Results:

  • HGV/GBV-C RNA prevalence was 2.24% among the tested subjects.
  • All HGV/GBV-C positive cases were identified in multi-transfused thalassaemic subjects or hemodialysis patients; none were found in healthy controls.
  • HGV/GBV-C infections were often asymptomatic, transient, and self-limiting, with some cases showing elevated liver enzymes or co-infection with other hepatitis viruses.

Conclusions:

  • Hepatitis G virus (HGV)/GB virus C (GBV-C) exhibits a low prevalence in the Indian population studied.
  • The virus primarily affects individuals with high-risk parenteral exposure, such as those undergoing frequent transfusions or dialysis.
  • HGV/GBV-C infections appear to be generally asymptomatic and self-limiting, suggesting a low pathogenic potential.

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