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Prevalence of the hepatitis delta virus in Rumania
Hepato-Gastroenterology
|December 1, 1986
Summary
Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infection is highly prevalent in Romanian patients with chronic liver disease, affecting over 83% of those with hepatitis B virus (HBV). This high incidence was observed across various chronic liver conditions, including hepatocellular carcinoma.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is endemic in Romania, leading to significant chronic liver disease.
- The delta agent (HDV) is a global concern, often exacerbating HBV-related liver pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of HDV infection among patients with chronic liver disease in Romania.
- To investigate the association of HDV with different forms of chronic liver disease.
Main Methods:
- Sera from 373 patients with chronic liver disease were analyzed.
- Hepatitis B virus markers, including HBsAg, were tested.
- Antibodies to HDV (Anti-HD) were detected using serological assays.
Main Results:
- Out of 228 HBsAg-positive patients, 190 (83.33%) tested positive for Anti-HD.
- A very high incidence of HDV infection was found in this cohort.
- HDV infection was notably prevalent in cases of chronic persistent hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma, differing from other studies.
Conclusions:
- HDV infection is highly prevalent in Romanian patients with chronic liver disease.
- The findings indicate a significant role of HDV in the pathogenesis of various chronic liver conditions, including advanced liver disease like hepatocellular carcinoma.