Seroprevalence of Hepatitis Viruses B, C, D and HIV Infection Among Hemodialysis Patients in Kerman Province, South-East Iran

Background: The prevalence of hepatitis viruses in hemodialysis patients has been reported to be much greater than in the general population. Attention to local data, effectively guides health planners so that they can control infections and prevent nosocomial transmissions.

Objectives: This cross sectional study was carried out to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), and hepatitis D (HDV) viruses, as well as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in dialysis centers in the Kerman Province, in the southeast of Iran.

Patients and methods: All hemodialysis patients (n = 228) in 7 centers were enrolled in the study. Hepatitis B surface antigens (HBsAg), HCV antibodies (Ab), HDV Ab and HIV Ab were measured using specific enzyme linked immunoassay kits (ULTRA kit, bioMérieux, France) and confirmed by a qualitative PCR assay.

Results: The studied group was comprised of 92 (40.4%) females and 136 (59.6%) males. The mean age of the patients was 51 ± 9.5 years and the duration of hemodialysis was 39.7 ± 7.9 months. Positive HBsAg was found in 7% of cases, HCV Ab in 7%, and patients with both viruses were detected in 1.7% cases. HIV Ab and HDV Ab were negative in all cases. Out of the other risk factors, frequency of blood transfusions was significantly correlated with positive HCV Ab (P < 0.008).

Conclusions: Prevalence of HBV and HCV in hemodialysis patients was moderate to low in the Kerman Province, as in other parts of the country. Strict adherence to protective measures could lead to even lower rates.