[A seroepidemiological investigation on HCV infection among population in Tianjin area]

Sera from 88 hepatitis B (HB) patients and 375 cases with gynecological conditions were detected for anti-HCV antibody with ELISA. The positive rate of anti-HCV antibody in HB cases was 12.50% (11/88); in gynecological cases was 0.80% (13/375). It was confirmed that HCV infection not only existed in this area but was also associated with the type of HB. The results suggested that HCV infection might be an important factor for HB to become chronic and difficult to treat. The positive rate of anti-HCV antibody in gynecological cases was quite high, suggesting that nosocomial infection should be paid attention to. In addition to the strict disinfection of medical equipment and blood products, the screening of blood donors, defining the indications for transfusion of blood and blood products and immunizing the population at high risk with immunoglobulin were recommended.