Title of article
Seroprevalence of hepatitis C and risk factors in haemodialysis patients in Guilan, Islamic Republic of Iran
Author/Authors
Amiri, Z.M. guilan university of medical sciences - Department of Social Medicine, ايران , Shakib, A.J. guilan university of medical sciences - Department of Social Medicine, ايران , Toorchi, M. guilan university of medical sciences - Department of Social Medicine, ايران
From page
372
To page
376
Abstract
We assessed the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and associated risk factors for all 298 haemodialysis patients in 7 dialysis units in Guilan province. Serum samples were screened for anti- HCV antibodies using a second generation enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Positive samples were confirmed by immunoblot assay. Overall prevalence was 24.8% (range: 9%–40%; 95% CI: 19.9–29.7): 80 patients tested positive and 74 were confirmed positive by immunoblot assay. Length of time on dialysis and history of rejected kidney transplant were statistically significantly associated with HCV infection. Age, sex and previous blood transfusion were not associated. Nosocomial transmission may play a role in the spread of HCV in haemodialysis units. A separate dialysis system should be used for seropositive HCV patients.
Journal title
Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal
Journal title
Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal
Record number
2637459
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