Growth abnormalities in children with chronic hepatitis B or C

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Chronic hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) infections are suspected to cause growth impairment in children.
• Existing data on growth deficits in pediatric hepatitis are inconsistent, and underlying factors remain unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate growth parameters in children and adolescents with chronic HBV or HCV.
• To identify factors influencing growth impairment, such as liver inflammation and transmission route.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 135 children and adolescents with chronic HBV or HCV.
• Assessment of growth (height SDS), weight, antiviral treatment, liver inflammation markers (ALT), and HBV DNA levels.
• Evaluation of infection transmission routes (vertical, parenteral).

Main Results:

• The study population exhibited significantly lower mean baseline height SDS compared to non-infected children.
• Elevated ALT levels were associated with reduced height SDS in boys (-1.4) and girls (-0.5).
• Parenteral transmission was linked to more severe growth deficits (boys -3.3, girls -0.9 SDS) than vertical transmission (-0.2 SDS for both).

Conclusions:

• Chronic HBV or HCV infection can lead to compromised growth in pediatric patients.
• Liver inflammation, indicated by elevated ALT, is a primary factor influencing growth impairment.
• Early antiviral treatment may be beneficial for children with significant ALT elevation.