[Analysis of HCV infection in patients with hemophilia]

Second generation antibodies of HCV, HCV-RNA, genotype and data of liver function were investigated with the purpose of better understanding the condition of the 32 hemophiliac patients currently in our hospital. The results being: 1) The positivity ratio of second generation antibodies was 96.9% and a negative example occurred in only one infant born in 1990. 2) In the positive example of second generation antibodies, HCV-RNA positivity was 77.4%, which is extremely high result. 3) There are several kinds of genotypes, such as type I, type II, type II + III and type III. Type I is most commonly found in the younger generation. The possibly for this presence was suggested to be from imported blood products. 4) There were few findings of liver disorder in cases of HCV-RNA negative patients. Meanwhile, the presence of liver disorder was found in about 70% HCV-RNA patients. There is evidence of correlation between the level disorder and age of the patient. In general, initial infection for hemophiliac patients takes place early in life. Compared to non-hemophilia hepatitis C patients, the liver disorder occurs at all ages but is becoming more prevalent younger patients. Although not common, there were occasionally a few cases of liver disorder turning into cirrhosis of the liver in patients in their 30's.