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Intrafamilial transmission of hepatitis C virus in Japan
K Kiyosawa1, T Sodeyama, E Tanaka
1Second Department of Internal Medicine, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan.
Insights
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission within families was investigated. When an index patient had HCV antibodies, 8% of family members also tested positive, indicating intrafamilial spread.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can lead to chronic liver disease.
- Understanding intrafamilial transmission is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of HCV infection among family members of index patients.
- To investigate patterns of intrafamilial HCV transmission.
Main Methods:
- Serological testing for anti-HCV antibodies was performed on 107 index patients and 296 family members.
- Prevalence rates were compared between families with anti-HCV positive index patients and those who were negative.
Main Results:
- Among families with anti-HCV positive index patients, 8% of relatives were also positive.
- No HCV antibodies were detected in family members of anti-HCV negative index patients.
- A statistically significant difference (P < 0.02) was observed between these groups.
Conclusions:
- The study suggests intrafamilial transmission of Hepatitis C virus.
- Specific family relationships were not identified as risk factors for transmission.
- Parenteral routes within the home or community are likely transmission pathways.
Abstract:
To clarify the intrafamilial transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV), the prevalence of antibody to HCV (anti-HCV) in 107 index patients with type C chronic liver disease was studied and compared with the prevalence of anti-HCV antibody in their 296 family members. Of the 85 index patients who were positive for anti-HCV, 15 (8%) of 196 of their family members were also HCV antibody positive, whereas of the 22 index patients who were anti-HCV antibody negative, none of the family members of the 100 evaluated was positive for anti-HCV antibody, a statistically significant difference between groups (P less than 0.02). No specific relative (spouse, child, parent, and sibling) was linked to HCV positivity in the index cases making it difficult to identify the route of infection that is believed to occur via the parenteral route in the home or community.