Serological prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Mardan district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan / Prevalência sorológica do vírus da hepatite B (HBV) no distrito de Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paquistão

Hepatitis B virus infection is perilous among the five types of Hepatitis, as it remains clinically asymptomatic. The present study draws up-to-date prevalence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the general population of Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan. The blood samples from 4803 individuals including 2399 male and 2404 females were investigated. All the suspected samples were analyzed for hepatitis B surface antigen using Immuno-chromatographic test (ICT), Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and followed by Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results showed that 312 (13.00%) out of 2399 individuals contained antibodies in their blood against HBV, while among the different age groups, the highest incidences of HBV antibodies were found in the age of 21-30 groups (10.73%). Furthermore, the ICT positive samples were screened by nested polymerase chain reaction to detect the existence of active HBV-DNA. It was observed that 169 (7.04%) out of (2399) male of the total population (4803) tested was positive. On the other hand, the female 463 (19.25%) possessed antibodies in their blood against HBV. Accumulatively, our results showed a higher percentage of HBV prevalence in males than females in the age group 21-30 years. The total HCV infected in Mardan general population was recorded at 5.7% comprising both male and female.

A infecção pelo vírus da hepatite B é perigosa entre os cinco tipos de hepatite, pois permanece clinicamente assintomática. O presente estudo traça a prevalência atualizada do vírus da hepatite B (HBV) na população geral de Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, no Paquistão. Amostras de sangue de 4.803 indivíduos, incluindo 2.399 homens e 2.404 mulheres, foram investigadas. Todas as amostras suspeitas foram analisadas para o antígeno de superfície da hepatite B usando teste imunocromatográfico (ICT), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), seguido por transcrição reversa-reação em cadeia da polimerase (RT-PCR). Os resultados mostraram que 312 (13,00%) de 2.399 indivíduos continham anticorpos no sangue contra o VHB, enquanto, entre as diferentes faixas etárias, as maiores incidências de anticorpos VHB foram encontradas nos grupos de 21 a 30 anos (10,73%). Além disso, amostras positivas para ICT foram rastreadas por reação em cadeia da polimerase aninhada para detectar a existência de HBV-DNA ativo. Observou-se que 169 (7,04%) de 2.399 homens do total da população (4803) testados foram positivos. Por outro lado, 463 mulheres (19,25%) possuíam anticorpos no sangue contra VHB. Acumulativamente, nossos resultados mostraram uma porcentagem maior de prevalência de HBV em homens do que em mulheres na faixa etária de 21 a 30 anos. O total de HCV infectados na população geral de Mardan foi registrado em 5,7%, incluindo homens e mulheres.

Seroprevalencia de infecciones hemotransmisibles en donantes de sangre / Seroprevalence of transmissible infections in blood donors

Introducción. La seguridad transfusional es el objetivo primordial de los bancos de sangre, sin embargo, conlleva un alto riesgo de eventos adversos como son las infecciones transmisibles por transfusión (ITT). El conocimiento de la prevalencia de estas infecciones fue de particular interés en esta investigación, donde se determinó su frecuencia, coinfección y relación con el tipo de donantes admitidos. Metodología. Estudio observacional retrospectivo de 2017 y 2018, en el que se incluyeron todos los registros de donantes de sangre que contenían datos demográficos y resultados de los marcadores obligatorios en el país (Ecuador), tanto de pruebas serológicas como moleculares. Se obtuvo el permiso del custodio de la información y del subcomité de bioética de investigaciones en seres humanos. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Resultados. Se determinó una prevalencia del 3,18 % de resultados reactivos para una o más ITT, el rango de edad más prevalente fue de 29 a 40 años, el 89,8 % fueron donantes compensatorios, y de ellos el 90 % fueron reactivos para una o más ITT. El marcador serológico más prevalente fue el anti-core del virus de la hepatitis B (anti-HBc), seguido por el de sífilis y los anticuerpos contra el virus de la hepatitis C (VHC). La coinfección más prevalente fue con sífilis y hepatitis B. Se encontró una diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre los resultados obtenidos en las pruebas serológicas y las moleculares (x2=26,9; p=0,000). Conclusión. Las ITT en los bancos de sangre son un riesgo latente, por lo que es necesario conocer las variaciones epidemiológicas que existen en cada población. El conocimiento de la prevalencia de las ITT en donantes de sangre permite establecer nuevas estrategias de selección del donante, que garanticen la mejor seguridad posible en las transfusiones, además debe verificarse siempre la metodología utilizada y hacer monitoreo permanente del sistema de calidad establecido

Introduction. Transfusion safety is the primary objective of blood banks, however one of the adverse reactions to blood transfusion are the transfusion transmissible infections (TTIs). Knowledge of the prevalence of these infections was of particular interest in this study where we determined their frequency, co-infection and relationship with the type of donors admitted. Methodology. Retrospective observational study during 2017 and 2018, in which all blood donor records containing demographic data and results of the country's (Ecuador) mandatory serological markers of both serological and molecular tests were included. Permission was obtained from the data custodian and the Human Research Bioethics Subcommittee. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Results. A prevalence of 3,18% of reactive results to one or more TTIs was determined, the most prevalent age range was 29 to 40 years, 89.8% were compensatory donors and 90% of them were reactive to one or more TTIs. The anti- core serological marker of the hepatitis B virus (anti-HBc) was the most prevalent, followed by syphilis and hepatitis C antibodies. Syphilis and hepatitis B were identified as the most prevalent coinfection. The correlation between the results obtained in the serological and molecular tests was determined to be different and statistically significant (x2=26.9; p=0.000). Conclusion. TTIs in blood banks are a latent risk, so it is necessary to know the epidemiological variations that exist in every population. Knowledge of the prevalence of TTIs in blood donors facilitates new donor selection strategies that guarantee the best possible safety in transfusions. In addition, the methodology used must always be verified and the established quality system must be permanently monitored

Evaluation of the seroprevalence of infectious diseases in 2, 445 in vitro fertilization cycles / Avaliação da soroprevalência de doenças infecciosas em 2. 445 ciclos de fertilização in vitro

Abstract Objective To evaluate the seroprevalence of positive markers for syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) I and II, human T cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) I and II, and hepatitis B and C among women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis among patients who underwent IVF, between January 2013 and February 2016, and who had complete screening records. Results We analyzed 1,008 patients who underwent IVF, amounting to 2,445 cycles. Two patients (0.2%) tested positive for HIV I and II and none for HTLV I and II. Three patients (0.3%) had positive screening for syphilis, and two (0.2%) had positive hepatitis C antibody test (anti-HCV). A positive hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HbsAg) test was observed in 4 patients (0.4%), while 47 (4.7%) patients were positive for IgG antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HbC IgG), and only 1 (0.1%) was positive for IgM antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HbC IgM). The anti-HbS test was negative in 659 patients (65.3%). Only 34.7% of the patients had immunity against the Hepatitis B virus. Patients with an anti-HbS negative result were older than those with a hepatitis B test (anti-HbS) positive result (36.3 versus 34.9; p<0.001). Conclusion The present study showed lower infection rates than the Brazilian ones for the diseases studied in patients undergoing IVF. Only a few patients were immunized against hepatitis B.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a soroprevalência de marcadores positivos para sífilis, vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) I e II, vírus linfotrópicos de células T humanas (HTLV) I e II e hepatite B e C em mulheres submetidas a fertilização in vitro (FIV). Métodos Realizamos uma análise retrospectiva entre as pacientes submetidas a FIV, entre janeiro de 2013 e fevereiro de 2016, e que possuíam prontuários completos. Resultados Foram analisadas 1.008 pacientes submetidas a FIV, totalizando 2,445 ciclos. Duas pacientes (0,2%) apresentaram resultado positivo para HIV I e II, e nenhuma para HTLV I e II. Três pacientes (0,3%) apresentaram triagem positiva para sífilis, e duas (0,2%) apresentaram teste de pesquisa de anticorpos anti-HCV (anti-HCV) positivo. Um teste de antígeno de superfície do vírus da hepatite B (HbsAg) positivo foi observado em 4 pacientes (0,4%), enquanto 47 (4,7%) pacientes foram positivas para anticorpos IgG contra o antígeno de superfície da hepatite B (IgG anti-HbC), e apenas 1 (0,1%) foi positiva para anticorpos IgM contra o antígeno central da hepatite B (IgM anti-HbC). O teste de anticorpos contra hepatite B (anti-HbS) foi negativo em 659 pacientes (65,3%). Apenas 34,7% das pacientes tinham imunidade contra o vírus da hepatite B. Pacientes comresultado negativo anti-HbS erammais velhas do que aquelas com resultado positivo anti-HbS (36,3 versus 34,9; p<0,001). Conclusão Este estudo mostrou taxas de infecção inferiores às taxas brasileiras para as doenças estudadas em pacientes submetidas à FIV. Apenas alguns pacientes foram imunizados contra a hepatite B.

Hepatite B e C em gestantes atendidas em um programa de pré-natal em um hospital universitário no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil: estudo retrospectivo de rastreamento da soroprevalência / Hepatitis b and c in pregnant women attended by a prenatal program in an universitary hospital in rio de janeiro, brazil: retrospective study of seroprevalence screening

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Hepatitis B and C are diseases with high morbimortality and constitute a global public health problem. In Brazil, the prevalence is not homogeneous, oscillating among different regions, but it is estimated that currently about 1% of the population present chronic disease related to the B virus and that there are 1.5 million infected with the C virus. Despite the development of hepatitis B vaccine, improvement in diagnostic methods and therapeutic advances in the field of viral hepatitis, there is still a large number of people who continues to be infected by these viruses, especially in populations at risk and also due to several factors, including vaccination and migration policies. Vertical and perinatal transmissions are of great importance in the epidemiology of viral hepatitis and the blood tests performed during prenatal care constitute a great opportunity for screening and identifying these viruses. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the seroprevalence of markers for B and C viruses in women who underwent prenatal care at the Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro (Antonio Pedro University Hospital) from 2006 to 2013 and to compare the results found with regional data and those described in the specific literature. METHODS: A descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative study with retrospective data collected from 635 records of pregnant women attended at the Prenatal Service of the Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro, Niterói, state of Rio de Janeiro, from March 2006 until December 2013. The database was built in the Microsoft Office Access program and was later exported to Microsoft Office Excel. For the processing and analysis of the data, it was used the SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science, IBM) version 22.0, for Windows. RESULTS: Twelve cases with positive HBsAg (1.9%), 189 cases with positive anti-HBs (35.9%) and seven positive anti-HCV patients (1.3%) were observed. There was no significant association between age and positivity for HBsAg, anti-HBs and anti-HCV (P =0.205, 0.872 and 0.676, respectively). There was a direct relationship between the anti-HBs positivity and the last four years of the study (P<0.0001). CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of HBsAg was observed, higher than the expected for the evaluated region; there was a prevalence of anti-HCV, consistent with the current Brazilian reality; and a likely low rate of hepatitis B immunization, with a relatively high rate of susceptibility to this infection and no case of co-infection between B and C viruses and HIV. It is emphasized not only the need to trace hepatitis B and C, without exceptions, during prenatal care, since even though the current advances in therapy may not cure, at least they may allow a better quality of life for patients with chronic disease and the mandatory completion of immunoprophylaxis in all newborns. Special attention should be given to those patients susceptible to HBV, with prompt diagnosis and referral for specific vaccination.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: As hepatites pelo vírus B e C são doenças com elevada morbimortalidade e um problema de saúde pública global. No Brasil a prevalência não é homogênea, variando entre as diferentes regiões, mas estima-se que atualmente cerca de 1% da população apresente doença crônica relacionada ao vírus B e que haja 1,5 milhões de infectados pelo vírus C. Apesar do desenvolvimento da vacina contra a hepatite B, da melhoria nos métodos diagnósticos e dos avanços terapêuticos no campo das hepatites virais, ainda é grande o número de pessoas que continuam sendo infectadas por esses vírus, principalmente nas populações sob algum tipo de risco e devido a vários fatores incluindo políticas de vacinação e migração. A transmissão vertical e também a perinatal têm grande importância na epidemiologia das hepatites virais e os exames realizados durante o pré-natal constituem uma oportunidade única de rastreio e identificação destes vírus. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a soroprevalência de marcadores para os vírus B e C em mulheres que realizaram a assistência pré-natal no Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro no período de 2006 a 2013 e comparar os resultados encontrados com os dados regionais e os descritos na literatura específica. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, descritivo, do tipo quantitativo, com coleta retrospectiva de dados em 635 prontuários de gestantes atendidas no Serviço de pré-natal do Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro, Niterói, estado do Rio de Janeiro no período de março de 2006 a dezembro de 2013. O banco de dados foi construído no programa Microsoft Office Access, sendo posteriormente exportado para Microsoft Office Excel. Para o processamento e análise dos dados, foi utilizado o pacote estatístico SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science, IBM) versão 22.0, para Windows. RESULTADOS: Foram observados 12 casos com HBsAg positivo (1,9%), 189 casos com anti-HBs positivo (35,9%) e sete pacientes positivas para o anti-HCV (1,3%). Não foi observada associação significativa entre a faixa etária e a positividade do HBsAg, anti-HBs e anti-HCV (P=0, 205, 0,872 e 0,676 respectivamente). Houve relação direta entre a positividade do anti-HBs e os últimos quatro anos da pesquisa (P<0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: Foi observada uma prevalência alta do HBsAg, acima daquela esperada para a região avaliada; uma prevalência para o anti-HCV concordante com a realidade brasileira atual; um índice provavelmente baixo de imunização contra a hepatite B, com índice relativamente alto de susceptibilidade para esta infecção e nenhum caso de coinfecção entre o vírus B, C e o HIV. Enfatiza-se não só a necessidade da triagem das hepatites B e C, sem exceções, durante o pré-natal, já que os avanços atuais na terapêutica poderão se não curar, pelo menos possibilitar uma melhor qualidade de vida para as pacientes com doença crônica e da realização mandatória da imunoprofilaxia em todos os recém-natos. Atenção especial deverá ser dada àquelas pacientes susceptíveis ao HBV, com pronto diagnóstico e encaminhamento para a realização da vacinação específica.

Prevalence of serological markers for hepatitis and potential associated factors in patients with diabetes mellitus / Prevalência de marcadores sorológicos para hepatite e potenciais fatores associados em pacientes com diabetes mellitus / Prevalencia de marcadores serológicos para la hepatitis y potenciales factores asociados en pacientes con diabetes mellitus

ABSTRACT Objective: to estimate the prevalence of serological markers for hepatitis B and C in patients with diabetes mellitus and analyze potential associated factors. Method: a cross-sectional study with 255 patients with diabetes mellitus. Demographic, clinical, and risk behavior factors for hepatitis B and C were selected. The markers HBsAg, Anti-HBc IgG, Anti-HBc IgM, Anti-HBs, and Anti-HCV were investigated. A questionnaire and venous blood collection and inferential statistical analysis were used. Results: 16.8% of the patients had a total reactive Anti-HBc marker, 8.2% an isolated Anti-HBs, and 75% were non-reactive for all hepatitis B markers. No case of reactive HBsAg was found and 3.3% of the patients had a reactive anti-HCV marker. The prevalence of prior hepatitis B virus infection was directly associated with the time of diabetes mellitus and the prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection was not associated with the investigated variables. The prevalence of hepatitis B and C infection in patients with diabetes mellitus was higher when compared to the national, with values of 16.8% and 3.3%, respectively. Conclusion: the results suggest that patients with diabetes are a population of higher vulnerability to hepatitis B and C, leading to the adoption of preventive measures of their occurrence.

RESUMO Objetivo: estimar a prevalência de marcadores sorológicos para hepatite B e C em pacientes com diabetes mellitus e analisar potenciais fatores associados. Método: estudo transversal com 255 pacientes com diabetes mellitus. Elegeram-se variáveis demográficas, clínicas e comportamentos de risco para hepatite B e C. Investigou-se os marcadores HBsAg, Anti-HBc IgG, Anti-HBc IgM, Anti-HBs e Anti-HCV. Utilizou-se um questionário e coleta de sangue venoso e análise por estatística inferencial. Resultados: 16,8% pacientes apresentaram marcador Anti-HBc total reagente, 8,2% Anti-HBs isolado e 75% foram não reagentes para todos os marcadores de hepatite B. Nenhum caso de HBsAg reagente foi encontrado, 3,3% dos pacientes apresentaram marcador anti-HCV reagente. A prevalência de infecção pregressa pelo vírus da hepatite B mostrou-se diretamente associado ao tempo de diabetes mellitus, e a prevalência de infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C não teve associação com as variáveis investigadas. A prevalência de infecção por hepatite B e C em pacientes com diabetes mellitus foi superior a nacional, 16,8% e 3,3% respectivamente. Conclusão: os resultados sugerem que pacientes com diabetes sejam uma população de maior vulnerabilidade às hepatites B e C, ensejando à adoção de medidas preventivas de sua ocorrência.

RESUMEN Objetivo: estimar la prevalencia de marcadores serológicos para la hepatitis B y C en pacientes con diabetes mellitus y analizar potenciales factores asociados. Método: estudio transversal con 255 pacientes con diabetes mellitus. Se eligieron variables demográficas, clínicas y comportamientos de riesgo para hepatitis B y C. Se investigaron los marcadores HBsAg, Anti-HBc IgG, Anti-HBc IgM, Anti-HBs y Anti-HCV. Se utilizó un cuestionario, colecta de sangre venosa y análisis por estadística inferencial. Resultados: 16,8% de los pacientes presentaron marcador Anti-HBc total reactivo, 8,2% Anti-HBs aislado y 75% fueron no reactivos para todos los marcadores de hepatitis B. Ningún caso de HBsAg reactivo fue encontrado, 3,3% de los pacientes presentaron marcador anti-HCV reactivo. La prevalencia de infección previa por el virus de la hepatitis B se mostró directamente asociado al tiempo de diabetes mellitus, y la prevalencia de infección por el virus de la hepatitis C no tuvo asociación con las variables investigadas. La prevalencia de infección por hepatitis B y C en pacientes con diabetes mellitus fue superior al nacional, 16,8% y 3,3% respectivamente. Conclusión: los resultados sugieren que pacientes con diabetes son una población de mayor vulnerabilidad a las hepatitis B y C, lo que da lugar a la adopción de medidas preventivas de su ocurrencia.

Prognostic factors of the short-term outcomes of patients with hepatitis B virus-associated acute-on-chronic liver failure

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of the baseline status of patients with hepatitis B virus-associated acute-on-chronic liver failure on short-term outcomes. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted that included a total of 138 patients with hepatitis B virus-associated acute-on-chronic liver failure admitted to the Department of Infectious Diseases, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, from November 2013 to October 2016. The patients were divided into a poor prognosis group (74 patients) and a good prognosis group (64 patients) based on the disease outcome. General information, clinical indicators and prognostic scores of the patients' baseline status were analyzed, and a prediction model was established accordingly. RESULTS: Elder age, treatment with artificial liver support systems and the frequency of such treatments, high levels of white blood cells, neutrophils, neutrophil count/lymphocyte count ratio, alanine aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, total bilirubin, urea, and prognostic scores as well as low levels of albumin and sodium were all significantly associated with the short-term outcomes of hepatitis B virus-associated acute-on-chronic liver failure. The predictive model showed that logit (p) = 3.068 + 1.003 × neutrophil count/lymphocyte count ratio - 0.892 × gamma-glutamyl transferase - 1.138 × albumin - 1.364 × sodium + 1.651 × artificial liver support therapy. CONCLUSION: The neutrophil count/lymphocyte count ratio and serum levels of gamma-glutamyl transferase, albumin and sodium were independent risk factors predicting short-term outcomes of hepatitis B virus-associated acute-on-chronic liver failure, and the administration of multiple treatments with artificial liver support therapy during the early stage is conducive to improved short-term outcomes.

Prevalencia de hepatitis B y C en el banco de sangre de un hospital en Callao, Perú / Hepatitis B and C prevalence in a blood bank at general hospital in Callao, Peru

Objetivo: El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la prevalencia de seropositividad para HBsAg, Anti-HBcAg y Anti- HVC del Banco de Sangre del Hospital Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión (HNDAC) durante el periodo 2010 al 2012. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal retrospectivo. Se incluyó a los potenciales donadores. Se recolectaron las características tales como edad, sexo y conductas de riesgo. Se realizó el análisis descriptivo con el programa STATA 14. Resultados: Se incluyó 13 887 potenciales donantes del HNDAC entre enero 2010 y diciembre 2012. Se identificaron 897 potenciales donantes positivos. La prevalencia de HBsAg fue 0,55%; Anti-HBcAg, 5,15%; y Anti-HVC, 1,25%. De ellos se encontró edad promedio de 37,4 años para los pacientes infectados por virus de hepatitis B y de 36,9 para los pacientes infectados por virus de hepatitis C, 31,2% fueron mujeres del total de infectados. Conclusión: La prevalencia de serología positiva para virus de hepatitis B fue similar a reportes anteriores, por otro lado la serología positiva para virus de hepatitis C fue mayor a lo reportado en nuestro país

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of sero positivity for HBsAg, Anti-HBcAg and Anti- HVC in the blood bank of Hospital Daniel Carrion during the period 2010 - 2012. Materials and methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study. Potential donors who met the inclusion criteria were included. Sociodemographic factors, risk behaviors were gathered. A descriptive analysis was performed with STATA 14. Results: 13,887 potential blood donors of the HNDAC between January 2010 and December 2012 were identified. The population's mean was 37 years, 32% were women. 897 potential positive blood donors were identified. The prevalence of HBsAg was 0.55%; Anti-HBcAg, 5.15%; and Anti-HVC, 1.25%. Conclusion: The prevalence of positive serology for HBsAg was similar to the previous reports and Anti-HVC was higher than the prevalence reported in our country

The regulatory role of IL-6R in hepatitis B-associated fibrosis and cirrhosis

This study investigated the expression and regulation of IL-6R in hepatitis B-associated moderate hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis. Liver tissues, peripheral blood monocytes (PBMs) and serum were collected from 26 hepatitis B patients with liver fibrosis and 35 hepatitis B patients with liver cirrhosis. The levels of Il-6r mRNA expression in these samples were examined by quantitative real-time PCR and IL-6R protein levels were analyzed by western blot and ELISA. MiRNAs that regulate IL-6R expression were predicted by bioinformatics analysis, and validated by dual luciferase reporter assay. Compared with the hepatic fibrosis group, IL-6R was significantly upregulated at both mRNA and protein levels in liver tissues, PBMs and serum samples from the hepatic cirrhosis group (P<0.05). The 3′UTR of Il-6r mRNA was predicted to contain a miR-30b binding site and IL-6R was identified as a possible target of miR-30b. MiR-30b expression was significantly downregulated in samples from hepatic cirrhosis patients compared with hepatic fibrosis patients (P<0.05). In conclusion, IL-6R was upregulated while miR-30b was decreased in patients with liver cirrhosis. The miR-30 can directly regulate the expression of IL-6R.

Viral hepatitis in female sex workers using the Respondent-Driven Sampling

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of hepatitis B virus and C virus infections and their genotypes and analyze the risk factors for the markers of exposure to hepatitis B virus in female sex workers in a region of intense sex trade. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study performed with four hundred and two female sex workers in Goiânia, Brazil. Data have been collected using the Respondent-Driven Sampling. The women have been interviewed and tested for markers of hepatitis B and C viruses. Positive samples have been genotyped. The data have been analyzed using the Respondent-Driven Sampling Analysis Tool, version 5.3, and Stata 11.0. RESULTS The adjusted prevalence for hepatitis B virus and C virus were 17.1% (95%CI 11.6-23.4) and 0.7% (95%CI 0.1-1.5), respectively. Only 28% (95%CI 21.1-36.4) of the participants had serological evidence of vaccination against hepatitis B virus. Being older (> 40 years), being single, having a history of blood transfusion and use of cocaine, and ignoring the symptoms of sexually transmitted infections were associated with positivity for hepatitis B virus (p < 0.05). We have detected the subgenotype A1 of hepatitis B virus (n = 3) and the subtypes of hepatitis C virus 1a (n = 3) and 1b (n = 1). CONCLUSIONS We can observe a low prevalence of infection of hepatitis B and C viruses in the studied population. However, the findings of the analysis of the risk factors show the need for more investment in prevention programs for sexual and drug-related behavior, as well as more efforts to vaccinate this population against hepatitis B. The genotypes of the hepatitis B virus and C virus identified are consistent with those circulating in Brazil.

Comparative Analysis of Liver Injury-Associated Cytokines in Acute Hepatitis A and B

PURPOSE: Acute hepatitis A (AHA) and acute hepatitis B (AHB) are caused by an acute infection of the hepatitis A virus and the hepatitis B virus, respectively. In both AHA and AHB, liver injury is known to be mediated by immune cells and cytokines. In this study, we measured serum levels of various cytokines and T-cell cytotoxic proteins in patients with AHA or AHB to identify liver injury-associated cytokines. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-six patients with AHA, 16 patients with AHB, and 14 healthy adults were enrolled in the study. Serum levels of 17 cytokines and T-cell cytotoxic proteins were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays or cytometric bead arrays and analyzed for correlation with serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels. RESULTS: Interleukin (IL)-18, IL-8, CXCL9, and CXCL10 were significantly elevated in both AHA and AHB. IL-6, IL-22, granzyme B, and soluble Fas ligand (sFasL) were elevated in AHA but not in AHB. In both AHA and AHB, the serum level of CXCL10 significantly correlated with the peak ALT level. Additionally, the serum level of granzyme B in AHA and the serum level of sFasL in AHB correlated with the peak ALT level. CONCLUSION: We identified cytokines and T-cell cytotoxic proteins associated with liver injury in AHA and AHB. These findings deepen the existing understanding of immunological mechanisms responsible for liver injury in acute viral hepatitis.

Fatores associados à imunização contra Hepatite B entre trabalhadores da Estratégia Saúde da Família / Factores asociados con la vacunación contra la hepatitis B entre los trabajadores de la Estrategia Salud de la Familia / Factors associated with immunization against Hepatitis B among workers of the Family Health Strategy Program

Estudo transversal conduzido entre trabalhadores da Estratégia Saúde da Família de Montes Claros. Objetivo: investigar o relato de vacinação contra Hepatite B, a verificação da imunização e os fatores associados às dosagens de anti-HBs. Método: coletaram-se amostras de sangue daqueles que relataram ter recebido uma ou mais doses da vacina. Avaliou-se a associação da dosagem de anti-HBs com condições sociodemográficas, ocupacionais e comportamentais. As associações foram verificadas pelos testes Mann Whitney e Kruskal Wallis e correlação de Spermann seguida pela regressão linear, utilizou-se o SPSS® 17.0. Resultados: dentre os 761 entrevistados, 504 (66,1%) foram vacinados, 52,5% tomaram três doses, 30,4% verificaram a imunização. Dos 397 avaliados quanto à dosagem de anti-HBs, 16,4% estavam imunes. Conclusão: constatou-se que o maior tempo de trabalho foi associado a níveis mais elevados de anti-HBs, enquanto os níveis de tabagismo foram inversamente associados ao anti-HBs. Há necessidade de campanhas de vacinação entre esses trabalhadores. .

Estudio transversal realizado entre trabajadores de la Estrategia Salud de la Familia Montes Claros. Objetivo: investigar el informe de la vacunación contra la hepatitis B, la verificación de la inmunización y los factores asociados con la dosis de anti-HBs. Método: se recogieron muestras de sangre de los que informaron que tenían una o más dosis de la vacuna. Se evaluó la asociación entre la dosis de anti- HBs con las condiciones sociodemográficas, laborales y de comportamiento. Las asociaciones fueron verificadas por Mann Whitney y Kruskal Wallis y Spermann correlación seguida por regresión lineal utilizando el programa SPSS® 17.0. Resultado: entre los 761 encuestados, 504 (66,1%) fueron vacunados, el 52,5 % recibió tres dosis de vacunación, 30,4% verificado. De los 397 evaluados para la determinación de anticuerpos anti-HBs, 16,4 % eran inmunes. Conclusión: se encontró que la mayor duración de la obra se asoció con mayores niveles de anti- HBs, mientras que los niveles de tabaquismo se asoció inversamente con el anti- HBs. La necesidad de campañas de vacunación entre los trabajadores. .

Cross-sectional study conducted among workers of the Family Health Strategy Montes Claros. Objective: to investigate the report of vaccination against Hepatitis B, verification of immunization and the factors associated with dosages of anti-HBs. Method: we collected blood samples from those reported that they had one or more doses of the vaccine. We evaluated the association of the dosage of anti- HBs with sociodemographic conditions, occupational and behavioral. The associations were verified by Mann Whitney and Kruskal Wallis and correlation Spermann by linear regression using SPSS® 17.0. Results: among the 761 respondents, 504 (66.1%) were vaccinated, 52.5 % received three doses, 30.4 % verified immunization. Of the 397 evaluated for the determination of anti-Hbs, 16.4% were immune. Conclusion: it was found that longer duration of work was associated with higher levels of anti-HBs, while levels of smoking were inversely associated with anti-HBs. These workers need for vaccination campaigns. .

Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk of Compensated Cirrhosis Patients with Elevated HBV DNA Levels according to Serum Aminotransferase Levels

Sometimes, hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related cirrhotic patients with normal aminotransferase levels are closely followed-up for the elevation of aminotransferase levels instead of prompt antiviral therapy (AVT). We analyzed the long-term hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk according to the aminotransferase levels in a retrospective cohort of 1,468 treatment-naive, HBV-related, compensated cirrhosis patients with elevated HBV DNA levels (> or =2,000 IU/mL). Based on aminotransferase levels, patients were categorized into normal ( or =40 U/L, n = 1,104). During a median of 5.3 yr of follow-up (range: 1.0-8.2 yr), HCC developed in 296 (20%) patients. The 5-yr cumulative HCC incidence rate was higher in patients with elevated aminotransferase level, but was not low in normal aminotransferase level (17% vs. 14%, P = 0.004). During the follow-up, 270/364 (74%) patients with normal aminotransferase levels experienced elevation of aminotransferase levels, and AVT was initiated in 1,258 (86%) patients. Less patients with normal aminotransferase levels received AVT (70% vs. 91%, P < 0.001) and median time to start AVT was longer (17.9 vs. 2.4 months, P < 0.001). AVT duration was an independent factor associated with HCC, and median duration of AVT was shorter (4.0 vs. 2.6 yr, P < 0.001) in patients with normal aminotransferase levels. The HCC risk of compensated cirrhosis patients with normal aminotransferase level is not low, and AVT duration is associated with lowered HCC risk, indicating that prompt AVT should be strongly considered even for those with normal aminotransferase levels.

Prevalence of hepatitis B and C seropositivity in pregnant women / Prevalencia de soropositividade para hepatite B e C em gestantes / Prevalencia de seropositividad para hepatitis B y C en mujeres embarazadas

The aim of the study was to identify the prevalence of hepatitis B and C seropositivity in pregnant women attended in a public maternity hospital located in Catalao-GO from 2005 to 2009. Descriptive, exploratory study conducted through patients` hospital records. For data analysis, we used SPSS version 18.0. The confidence interval (CI) was calculated using the Person χ² test, considering a significance level of 5% (p <0.05). The prevalence of HBV was 5.64% and HCV 0.098%, predominantly in young pregnant women aged between 20 and 30 years old, single and in their first pregnancy.

El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar la prevalencia de seropositividad para los virus de la hepatitis B y C en mujeres embarazadas atendidas en una maternidad pública de Catalão-GO entre los años 2005 y 2009. Se trata de un estudio descriptivo-exploratorio realizado a partir de la revisión de las fichas clínicas de las pacientes. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó el programa SPSS versión 18.0. El intervalo de confianza (IC) fue calculado por medio del test de Person χ², considerando un nivel de significancia de 5% (p <0,05). Las tasas de prevalencia de los virus de la hepatitis B y C fueron de 5,64% y 0,098% respectivamente. La mayor frecuencia de seropositividad de estos virus se observó en embarazadas entre 20 y 30 años, solteras y primigestas.

O objetivo do estudo foi identificar a prevalência de soropositividade para as hepatite B e C em gestantes atendidas em uma maternidade pública do município de Catalão-GO no período de 2005 a 2009. Estudo descritivo, exploratório, realizado por meio de consulta aos prontuários. Para a análise dos dados utilizou-se SPSS versão 18.0. O intervalo de confiança (IC) foi calculado por meio do teste de Person χ², considerando um nível de significância de 5% (p< 0,05). A taxa de prevalência de VHB foi de 5,64% e a de VHC, de 0,098%, predominantemente em gestantes jovens, com idade entre 20 e 30 anos, solteiras e primigestas.

Survey of perinatal hepatitis B virus transmission after Korean National Prevention Program in a tertiary hospital

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in South Korea have been organizing hepatitis B virus (HBV) vertical infection prevention projects since July 2002. In this single-institute study, the results of surveys conducted in target mothers who delivered babies in a tertiary hospital were investigated and analyzed. METHODS: Of the 9,281 mothers and their 9,824 neonates born between July 2002 and December 2012, 308 hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive mothers and their 319 neonates were selected for this study, and their records were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: A total of 308 mothers were HBsAg-positive, with an HBV prevalence of 3.32% (308/9,281). There were 319 neonates born to these HBsAg-positive mothers, and 252 were confirmed to as either HBsAg-positive or -negative. Four were confirmed as HBsAg-positive, with a 1.59% (4/252) HBV vertical infection rate. All the mothers of neonates who had an HBV vertical infection were hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive. Among the HBsAg-positive neonates, three were HBeAg-positive and had an HBV DNA titer of 1.0 x 10(8) copies/mL. CONCLUSIONS: The HBV prevalence of mothers was 3.32% (308/9,281), and their vertical infection rate was 1.59% (4/252). Thus, the South Korean HBV vertical infection prevention projects are effective, and, accordingly, HBV prevalence in South Korea is expected to decrease continuously.

Prevalência de sorologia positiva para HIV, hepatite B, toxoplasmose e rubéola em gestantes do noroeste paranaense / Prevalence of positive sorology for HIV, hepatitis B, toxoplasmosis and rubella in pregnant women from the northwestern region of the state of Paraná

OBJETIVO: Verificar a soroprevalência do vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV), hepatite B (VHB), toxoplasmose e rubéola em gestantes do noroeste paranaense. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo a partir dos resultados de exames sorológicos de triagem no pré-natal de 1.534 pacientes atendidas durante o primeiro semestre de 2010. Foram incluídos somente resultados do primeiro exame de pré-natal e aqueles com pesquisa simultânea de IgG e IgM para toxoplasmose e rubéola. A sorologia foi realizada por enzimaimunoensaio em micropartículas (MEIA). Para análise estatística foi empregado o teste do χ², com nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: A positividade para o HIV foi de 0,3%, a sorologia para VHB pelo marcador HBsAg foi positiva em 0,5% das gestantes, enquanto a reatividade para anticorpos IgM anti-Toxoplasma gondii foi de 1,1% e para IgG de 59%. Em relação à rubéola nenhuma sorologia mostrou positividade para IgM, e para IgG a reatividade foi de 99,6%. A análise dos resultados mostrou que não há associação entre as soroprevalências estudadas e a idade das pacientes, exceto quanto à frequência de IgG anti-T. gondii, que foi mais elevada na faixa etária entre 30 e 44 anos. CONCLUSÃO: A soroprevalência dessas doenças infecciosas em gestantes do noroeste do Paraná é compatível com outras regiões do Brasil.

PURPOSE: To ascertain the seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV), toxoplasmosis and rubella infections in pregnant women in northwestern Paraná. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study based on the results of serological screening during prenatal care of 1,534 patients during the first half of 2010. We included only results from the first prenatal exam and with a simultaneous search for IgG and IgM antibodies to rubella and toxoplasmosis. Serology was performed by microparticle enzyme immunoassay (MEIA). Data were analyzed statistically by the χ² test, with the level of significance set at 5%. RESULTS: HIV positivity was 0.3%, positivity of HBV serology (HbsAg) was 0.5%, reactivity to IgM antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii was 1.1%, and reactivity to IgG antibodies was 59.0%. For rubella, no patient was positive for IgM, and IgG reactivity was 99.6%. Data analysis showed no statistical association between seroprevalence and patient age, except for the frequency of anti-T. gondii IgG, which was higher in the 30 to 44 year age group. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of these infectious diseases in pregnant women from northwestern Paraná is comparable to that observed in other regions of Brazil.

Seroprevalencia de marcadores de infecciones transmisibles por vía transfusional en banco de sangre de Colombia / Seroprevalence of markers of transfusion transmissible infections in blood bank in Colombia / Soroprevalencia de marcadores de infecções transmissiveis por via transfusional em banco de sangue da Colômbia

OBJETIVO: Determinar la seroprevalencia de marcadores de infecciones transmisibles por vía transfusional. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal con fuente de información secundaria, basada en los resultados de pruebas biológicas en los donantes de un banco de sangre de Medellín, Colombia, de 2007 a 2010. Se determinó la seroprevalencia de los marcadores de infección y se compararon según sexo y tipo de donante a través de análisis de frecuencias, chi cuadrado, Fisher y razones de prevalencia. RESULTADOS: La población de base estuvo conformada por 65.535 donantes de los cuales, 3,3% presentaran al menos una prueba biológica positiva. El marcador más prevalente en las pruebas del banco de sangre fue sífilis (1,2%), seguido de tripanosomiasis (1,0%), virus de la hepatitis C (VHC) (0,6%), virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) (0,5%) y virus de la hepatitis B (VHB) (0,2%). Con base en el laboratorio de referencia se halló una prevalencia de 0,6% para sífilis, 0,1% para VHB y 0% para VHC, VIH y Chagas. Se hallaron diferencias estadísticas en la prevalencia de VHB y sífilis según sexo y tipo de donante. CONCLUSIONES: Los resultados son coherentes con las prevalencias dadas por la Organización Panamericana de la Salud (OPS) y se pueden correlacionar con la prevalencia mundial de las infecciones transmisibles por via transfusional. Los resultados hallados en las pruebas del banco de sangre posibilitan la disminución del riesgo transfusional pero limitan la optimización de recursos al excluir donantes clasificados como falsos positivos.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the seroprevalence of markers of transfusion transmissible infections in donors of a blood bank in Medellin, Colombia, beteween 2007 and 2010. METHODS: A cross-sectional secondary data source, based on the results of biological testing of donors to a blood bank in Medellin. We determined the seroprevalence of markers of infection and were compared by sex and type of donor through frequency analysis, chi square, Fisher and prevalence ratios. RESULTS: The base population was 65,535 donors, and 3.3% had at least one positive biological test. The most prevalent marker in the blood bank testing was syphilis (1,2%), followed by trypanosomiasis (1,0%), hepatitis C virus (HCV) (0,6%), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) 0,5% and hepatitis B virus (HBV) (0,2%). Based on the reference laboratory found a prevalence of 0.6% for syphilis, 0,1% for (HBV) and 0% for (HCV), (HIV) and Chagas. We found statistical differences in the prevalence of (HBV) and syphilis by sex and type of donor. CONCLUSIONS: The results are consistent with the prevalences given by Pan American Health Organization and can be correlated with the global prevalence of transfusion-transmitted infections. The results founds by the blood bank lead to a transfusion risk reduction but limit the optimization of resources by excluding donors classified as false positives.

OBJETIVO: Determinar a soroprevalência de marcadores de infecções transmissíveis por transfusão. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com fonte de informação secundária, com base nos resultados dos testes biológicos em doadores de um banco de sangue em Medellín, Colômbia, de 2007 a 2010. Determinou-se a soroprevalência de marcadores de infecção, que foram comparados por sexo e tipo de doador por meio da análise de frequência, qui-quadrado, Fisher e taxas de prevalência. RESULTADOS: A população base foi formada por 65.535 doadores, dos quais 3,3% tinham pelo menos um teste biológico positivo. O marcador mais prevalente nos testes do banco de sangue foi a sífilis (1,2%), seguido pela tripanossomíase (1,0%), vírus da hepatite C (VHC) (0,6%), vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) (0,5%) e vírus da hepatites B (VHB) (0,2%). Com base no laboratório de referência, detectou-se prevalência de 0,6% para sífilis, 0,1% para VHB e 0% para VHC, VIH e Chagas. Foram encontradas diferenças estatísticas na prevalência de VHB e sífilis por sexo e tipo de doador. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados são consistentes com as prevalências informadas pela Organização Panamericana de Saúde e podem ser correlacionadas com a prevalência mundial das infecções transmitidas por transfusão. Os resultados dos testes do banco de sangue possibilitam a redução do risco de transfusão, mas limitam a otimização dos recursos ao excluir os doadores classificados como falsos positivos.

Association between HLA-DRB1* polymorphisms and hepatitis B infection in a brazilian population / Associação entre polimorfismos HLA-DRB1* e infecção por hepatite B em uma população brasileira

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to determine the genotype association for alleles of class II human leukocyte antigens (HLA) in the DRB1* locus among blood donors at the Fundação Hemope (Brazil) infected by or immunized for the hepatitis B virus (HBV). METHODS: A case-control study was performed, comprising a group of individuals infected by HBV and a control group of immunized individuals at a proportion of 1:4. Blood samples were taken for the HLA typing of the DRB1* locus. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed for the assessment of associations between the categorical variables using the chi-squared test and Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: A total of 320 blood donors were analyzed (241 males [75%] and 79 females [25%] with a mean age of 39 years). The case group consisted of 64 HBV-infected donors and the control group was composed of 256 HBV-immunized donors. The multivariate analysis stratified by gender revealed that the DRB1*09 allele was associated with infected male donors (p = 0.016) and the DRB1*08 allele was associated with infected donors aged 39 years or younger (p = 0.031). CONCLUSION: The results of the present study reveal that younger blood donors and male blood donors who respectively exhibit the DRB1*08 and DRB1*09 alleles are more susceptible to intensification of HBV infection.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a associação genotípica dos alelos de classe II dos antígenos leucocitários humanos (HLA) presentes no locus DRB1* entre doadores de sangue da Fundação Hemope (Brasil), infectados pelo ou imunizados contra o vírus da hepatite B (HBV). MÉTODOS: Estudo caso-controle foi realizado com um grupo de indivíduos infectados pelo HBV e um grupo controle composto de indivíduos imunizados na proporção de 1:4. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas para a tipagem HLA do locus DRB1*. Análises univariada e multivariada foram realizadas para a avaliação de associações entre as variáveis categóricas pelo teste do qui-quadrado e teste exato de Fisher. RESULTADOS: Um total de 320 doadores de sangue foram analisados (241 homens [75%] e 79 do sexo feminino [25%], com idade média de 39 anos). O grupo de casos consistiu de 64 doadores infectados pelo HBV e o grupo controle foi composto de 256 doadores imunes ao HBV. A análise multivariada estratificada por sexo revelou que o alelo DRB1*09 foi associado com os doadores infectados do sexo masculino (p = 0,016) e do alelo DRB1*08 foi associado com os doadores infectados com idade entre 39 anos ou mais jovens (p = 0,031). CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados do presente estudo revelam que doadores de sangue mais jovens e doadores de sangue do sexo masculino que exibem, respectivamente, os alelos DRB1*08 e DRB1*09, são mais suscetíveis à cronificação da infecção pelo HBV.