HBV & HIV seropositivity in multi-transfused haemophilics & thalassaemics in eastern India

Seropositivity to HBV (HBsAg) in multi-transfused patients of haemophilia A, haemophilia B, B thalassaemia and EB thalassaemia from Eastern India, was found to be 9, 0, 22.1 and 13 per cent respectively. HIV seropositivity was detected in patients of haemophilia A (4.4%) and B thalassaemia (0.8%) who received plasma components and packed cells periodically. Seropositivity to both HBsAg and HIV was found in one patient of haemophilia A. Serum alanine amino transferase (ALT), raised in multi-transfused thalassaemics suggests concurrent hepatitis which might have enhanced the transmission of viruses due to disturbed immune status. The universal voluntary blood donation programme, screening of blood for HBV and HIV by sensitive tests, early immunisation and periodic monitoring of HBV and HIV status are prerequisites for the management of transfusion dependent thalassaemia and haemophilia.