[Non-A, non-B hepatitis. Seroimmunological, epidemiological and clinical findings]

The characteristics of a third type of viral hepatitis, defined as non-A, non-B are analysed on the basis of the most recent reported findings. The problems of identification of the aetiological agent, its transmisibility in animals, the carrier condition, its possible evolution into chronic and fulminating forms, the effectiveness of immune globulin prophylaxis and epidemiological and clinical aspects are discussed. Reference is then made to the results of an epidemiological study of 293 patients with acute viral hepatitis, admitted to the Infectious Diseases Division of Parma Hospital. Diagnosis of non-A, non-B hepatitis was formulated, by exclusion, in 64 cases (21.8%). Intragroup studies pointed to an intermediate period of incubation and clinico-biochemical picture between A and B hepatitis the possible non-parenteral contagion route and possibilities of recurrence and development into chronic forms. Further information on hepatitis or on non-A, non-B hepatitis, can be provided by screenings based on antigen C demonstration (AgHC).