Prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections in Akola district- 4 year retrospective study

Abstract

Introduction: Viral hepatitis is caused by hepatotrophic viruses (Hepatitis A-G). Amongst these, hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus are responsible for more mortalities and morbidities due to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinomas. Various tests are available for detection of hepatitis viruses. Rapid immunochromatographic test are easy, give results in 15-20 minutes, widely available and hence are used more in recent days.Aims and objectives:This study was undertaken to study the prevalence of hepatitis ( B and C) in Akola district. Material and methods: This study is a retrospective study conducted from 1^st January 2016 to 31^st December 2019 in the department of microbiology at Government Medical College, Akola. Samples coming from both Out patient department (OPD) and In patient department (IPD) patients were included. Hepatitis B and C were tested by Rapid immunochromatographic tests.Results: Out of 70520 samples received for HBsAg testing (Hepatitis B surface Antigen), 1263 samples (1.79%) were positive. 8 samples showed co-infection with HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) antibody testing. Males were more affected than females (1.25:1). 21-30 years age group was most commonly affected (27.94% cases). Out of 22975 samples received for HCV antibody testing, 65 samples were positive (0.28%). Maximum number of HCV positive cases was in 31-40 years age group (27.69%).Conclusion: Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C was found lower as compared to other studies but increase in immunization, proper blood transfusion practices, use of sterile needles and syringes can still lower it.

Keywords: co-infection, HBsAg , HCV, Rapid immunochromatographic tests, retrospective study.