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Hepatitis in drug dependents

S S Seow

    Australian Family Physician
    |April 1, 1981
    PubMed
    Summary

    Hepatitis B infection is highly prevalent among intravenous drug users, with many also showing signs of liver dysfunction or chronic hepatitis. This group poses a significant risk for transmitting hepatitis B and non-A non-B hepatitis.

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    Area of Science:

    • Hepatology
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Addiction Medicine

    Background:

    • Viral liver diseases, including hepatitis B, are a significant concern in various populations.
    • Drug dependents, particularly those using intravenous drugs, are at high risk for infectious diseases.
    • Understanding the prevalence and impact of hepatitis B and other viral hepatitis in this demographic is crucial for public health.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To survey the prevalence of viral liver disease among drug dependents attending the WAADA.
    • To assess the serological markers of hepatitis B infection and the degree of liver dysfunction in this population.
    • To investigate the potential for drug dependents to act as a reservoir for hepatitis B and non-A non-B hepatitis.

    Main Methods:

    • A survey of 130 drug dependents was conducted between August and November 1977.
    • Serological tests were used to detect hepatitis B infection markers (HBsAg, Anti-HBs).
    • Liver function was assessed in HBsAg-negative patients, and liver biopsies were performed on 20 individuals.

    Main Results:

    • 58% of drug dependents showed serological evidence of hepatitis B infection.
    • 50-65% of HBsAg-negative patients exhibited some degree of liver dysfunction, potentially due to non-A non-B hepatitis.
    • 80% of patients with liver biopsies had chronic hepatitis, with 45% diagnosed with chronic aggressive hepatitis.

    Conclusions:

    • Intravenous drug use is strongly associated with high rates of hepatitis B and other viral liver diseases.
    • Drug dependents represent a significant reservoir for hepatitis B and non-A non-B hepatitis, posing a risk to the general population.
    • The high carriage rate of hepatitis B in this group (80 times that of the general population) underscores the need for targeted interventions.

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