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Factors Associated With Perinatal Hepatitis C Screening Among Exposed Children: 2016-2020

Danica E Kuncio1, Emily J Waterman1, S Z Ginny Robison2

  • 1Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Pediatrics
|June 13, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing completion is low. Testing infants at 2 months significantly improves screening rates, suggesting earlier testing enhances child health outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Hepatology
  • Public health

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening in perinatally exposed children is recommended but underutilized.
  • Variations in clinical testing guidelines may impact completion rates.
  • This study investigates pediatric care factors influencing perinatal HCV testing adherence.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine pediatric care factors associated with the completion of hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening in perinatally exposed children.
  • To identify optimal timing for HCV testing policies to improve screening rates.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective cohort study of children born to HCV-positive individuals in Philadelphia (2016-2020).
  • Analysis of demographic, pediatric care, and testing policy factors using chi-squared and logistic regression.
  • Evaluation of HCV testing completion and adequacy based on pediatrician policies.

Main Results:

  • Of 457 children, 67.2% completed HCV testing, and 17.2% were inadequately tested.
  • Testing completion was higher for children with maternal HIV coinfection, those on schedule for vaccinations, and those attending the 18-month well visit.
  • Pediatrician testing policies significantly impacted completion: 90.9% at 2 months vs. 58.5% at 18 months.

Conclusions:

  • The timing of pediatric hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing policies is a critical factor in completion rates.
  • Testing at 2 months demonstrated superior completion compared to later testing strategies.
  • Routine HCV testing for perinatally exposed children should be prioritized within the first year of life.
Abstract

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