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Hepatitis C transmission through dialysis machines
1Department of Medicine, Centro Médico Docente la Trinidad, Caracas, Venezuela.
ASAIO Journal (American Society for Artificial Internal Organs : 1992)
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission occurred in hemodialysis patients. Patients sharing dialysis machines with infected individuals showed significantly higher seroconversion rates, indicating patient-to-patient spread via equipment.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) poses a significant risk to patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis.
- Understanding transmission routes is crucial for infection control in dialysis units.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the transmission of Hepatitis C virus antibodies (HCVAb) among hemodialysis patients.
- To compare HCVAb seroconversion rates between two dialysis units with different infection control protocols.
Main Methods:
- Studied 58 Hepatitis B-seronegative patients on chronic hemodialysis.
- Assessed HCVAb using second-generation EIA tests.
- Compared seroconversion rates in Unit A (strict isolation) versus Unit B (shared dialysis machines with HCVAb-positive patients).
Main Results:
- Unit B patients, sharing dialysis machines with HCVAb-positive individuals, showed a significantly higher seroconversion rate (17/37) compared to Unit A (0/21).
- No significant difference in transfusion rates or units transfused between the two units.
- Statistical analysis revealed a highly significant difference in seroconversion (P < 0.0001).
Conclusions:
- Dialysis machines serve as a route for patient-to-patient transmission of Hepatitis C virus.
- Enhanced infection control measures are essential in hemodialysis units to prevent HCV spread.