Seroprevalence of hepatits B virus among hemodialysis patients in Bushehr province, southern Iran

ABSTRACT

Hepatitis B virus [HBV] infection is still reported from adult hemodialysis units. To determine the prevalence of anti-HBs antibody in hemodialysis patients and the correlation between levels of anti-HBs antibody with other factors. HBsAg, anti-HBs and anti-HBc antibodies level in 199 hemodialysis patients were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Seroconversion [antiHBs antibody >10 IU/L] was found in 22 patients. Minimum protective antibody level was found in patients aged >/= 60 years. Statistically significant correlation was not found between anti-HBs antibody and gender. Ten [8.4%] patients had abnormal ALT and/or AST. Prevalence of HBsAg, anti-HBc antibody, HBeAg and anti-HBe antibody were found in 8 [6.72%], 24 [25.16%], 2 [1.685] and 3 [2.52%] patients, respectively. periodic assessment of anti-HBs antibody level is strongly recommended in patients undergoing hemodialysis