[Frequencies of hepatitis B and C infections in hemophiliacs of Hamedan province, 2004]

ABSTRACT

Hemophilia is a x-linked deficiency of factor VIII. The aim of the present study was to determine the frequencies of hepatitis Band C infections, markers of inflammation and liver function tests and also to assess the possible association between factor VIII inhibitor and hepatitis Band C infections in hemophiliacs of Hamedan Province of Iran. Sixty-six patients with confirmed diagnosis of hemophilia were included, for whom, hepatitis Band C serology; aspartate aminotransferase [AST], alanine aminotransferase [ALT], factor VIII level and factor VIII inhibitor were evaluated. Frequencies of hepatitis C antibody and hepatitis B surface antigen were 59.1% and 5%, respectively. Frequency of factor VIII inhibitor was 47.8% in hemophilia A group, and its presence was not neither associated significantly with hepatitis B or C infections nor with AST or ALT levels. There was a significant statistical association between duration of hemophilia and development of factor VIII inhibitor [P<0.03] and hepatitis C [p<0.01]. Frequencies of hepatitis C and B are significant in hemophiliacs. Indeed, current screening of blood products might not be complete for elimination of blood-borne viruses and we strictly suggest revising this process in transfusion centers