[The problems of viral hepatitis B in hemodialysis units]

To study the spread of viral hepatitis B in hemodialysis departments, 92 patients and 52 members of the personnel were examined at such department. The presence of the complex of viral hepatitis B markers was determined with the use of such highly sensitive techniques as the radioimmunoassay and the enzyme immunoassay. All markers of hepatitis B virus infection were detected altogether in 50% of the patients and 79.1% of the personnel of the department. Clinico-laboratory studies revealed a considerable proportion of persons with chronic forms of the disease among these subjects. In patients with chronic renal insufficiency the latent course of the disease was mainly established, which probably ensured the continuity of the epidemic process at the department. Taking into account the present epidemiological situation, the main measures for the prophylaxis of viral hepatitis B at hemodialysis departments were recommended. The conclusions made on the basis of these studies emphasize that a wide complex of anti-epidemic measures for controlling viral hepatitis B was necessary at hemodialysis departments.