[Markers of hepatitis A infection in drug addicts]

Prevalence of HAV infection markers was studied in 100 drug addicts whose sera were collected between 1988 and 1989. Anti-HAV antibodies were found in 65 (65%) of the tested drug addicts and in 55% of the individuals serving as the control group. No correlation between the presence of HAV infection markers, and sex, duration of drug abuse or HIV status was seen. However, drug addicts with anti-HAV antibodies were older than those without these antibodies. There was no difference in a mean titre of anti-CMV and anti-HSV type 1 antibodies between the individuals with and without HAV infection markers. It suggests that the tested markers are specific for HAV infection.