Hepatitis Viruses Seromarkers and Liver Function inGuilan Hemophiliacs

There are some reports about hepatitis B and C Virus infection in hemophiliacs in different part of our country. We studied Guilan Province hemophiliacs to determine the frequency of hepatitis B surface antigen (HbsAg), anti hepatitis C antibody and liver function test impairments. This study was done from Feb to Apr 1999 among hemophiliacs registered in Guilan Hemophilia Society. Patients were examined for anti hepatitis C antibody (Radio immunblot assay(RIBA-II)method), hepatitis B surface antigen (Enzyme linked Immunosorbant Assay (ELIZA)) and liver function tests. 101 patients included. Mean age was 19.7 years old (Range 3-71 years old), 100 patients were male and one female. 29 patients (28.7%) had increased serum level of Alanine Aminotransfrase (ALT). 27 patient (26.7%) were HbsAg positive and 72 patient(71.3%) were Anti HCV-Ab positive. Duration of clotting factor receiving until 1376(1996) had an association with positive Anti HCV-Ab(P=0.01) but not with positive HbsAg or increased ALT. Clotting factor activity had an association with positive Anti HCV-Ab(P<0.001) and positive HbsAg (P<0.04). Frequency of positive anti HCV-Ab in who had received leophilized Factor VIII and Cryoprecipitate Factor VIII or Factor IX and Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) was greater than who had received only leophilized factor VIII or FFP.(P<0.01). Frequency of HbsAg positive patients was more than what we expected. Vaccination against hepatitis B virus after diagnosis of hemophilia is advised. Although Anti HCV-Ab frequency was similar to other studies, frequency of increased ALT was less. Because of high chronicity of hepatitis C Virus, diagnose and treat Anti HCV positive patients is suggested.