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[Studies on HDV and HCV infection in plasma donors with positive HBsAg]
Insights
Plasma donors showed higher rates of Hepatitis D Virus (HDV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection compared to non-donors. Cross-infection during plasmapheresis may contribute to increased hepatitis prevalence.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers are at risk for co-infections.
- Plasma donation procedures require careful screening and infection control.
- Hepatitis D Virus (HDV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) are significant global health concerns.
Purpose:
- To investigate the prevalence of HDV and HCV infections in HBsAg-positive plasma donors and non-donors.
- To identify potential risk factors for increased hepatitis infection rates in plasma donors.
- To assess the role of plasmapheresis in the transmission of viral hepatitis.
Summary:
- A study of 127 plasma donors and 152 non-donors carrying HBsAg revealed higher infection rates for HDV (7.9% vs 1.3%) and HCV (41.7% vs 2.6%) among plasma donors.
- Hepatitis prevalence was significantly higher in plasma donors (18.1%) compared to non-donors (4.6%).
- Findings suggest that cross-infection during plasmapheresis may be a contributing factor to the elevated rates of HDV and HCV infection and overall hepatitis prevalence in plasma donors.
Impact:
- Highlights the need for enhanced screening protocols for HBsAg carriers undergoing plasmapheresis.
- Informs public health strategies aimed at preventing viral hepatitis transmission in blood product donation settings.
- Underscores the importance of stringent infection control measures in plasmapheresis centers to mitigate cross-contamination risks.
Abstract:
Studies on HDV and HCV infection were carried out in 127 plasma donors and 152 non-donors carrying HBsAg. Results showed 7.9% (10/127) of the plasma donors and 1.3% (2/152) of the non-donors carrying HBsAg infected with HDAg, 41.7% (53/127) and 2.6% (4/152) with anti-HCV positive, and with prevalence rates of hepatitis of 18.1% (23/127) and 4.6% (7/152), respectively. The studies also indicated higher rates of HDV and HCV infection and prevalence of hepatitis may be caused by cross-infection during the course of plasmapheresis.