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A Protocol for Analyzing Hepatitis C Virus Replication
13:04

A Protocol for Analyzing Hepatitis C Virus Replication

Published on: June 26, 2014

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Seroprevalence of Hepatitis C in Children Without Identifiable Risk-Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Vasiliki Melikoki1, Georgia Kourlaba2, Ino Kanavaki3

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, General Hospital TZANEIO, Piraeus.

Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|February 26, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) affects 0.87% of children globally, with higher rates in Africa and among older children. Early antiviral treatment for children is crucial for HCV elimination strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Virology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) poses a significant global health challenge, with over 80 million infections worldwide.
  • Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies are now available for children aged 3 and above, making early intervention crucial.
  • Understanding HCV epidemiology in pediatric populations is essential for effective public health strategies and awareness.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and assess the prevalence of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in children globally.
  • To synthesize current data on HCV epidemiology in pediatric populations to inform public health interventions.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review of studies reporting Hepatitis C prevalence in children was conducted.
  • Studies focusing exclusively on high-risk groups were excluded to determine general population prevalence.
  • Data from 58 studies were analyzed to calculate overall and regional HCV prevalence in children.

Main Results:

  • An overall HCV prevalence of 0.87% was identified in children, varying regionally from 0.34% (Europe) to 3.02% (Africa).
  • HCV viremia was detected in 56.8% of infected children.
  • Prevalence was significantly higher in children over 10 years (0.97%) compared to those under 10 (0.75%), with no sex-based difference.

Conclusions:

  • The substantial prevalence of HCV in children, potentially underestimated due to underdiagnosis, highlights the need for targeted interventions.
  • Antiviral treatment strategies for Hepatitis C elimination should consider including pre-adolescent children.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment in pediatric populations are vital for reducing the long-term burden of HCV.
Abstract

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