Background: A prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is relatively low in children as it was 3% and 9% in
the upper and lower Egypt areas, respectively. Most chronic hepatitis C patients are asymptomatic and unaware of their
disease before diagnosis. Similarly, hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of chronic liver disease, particularly cirrhosis
and hepatocellular carcinoma, though HBV incidence and infection has been markedly reduced after mass vaccination
programs. Objectives: To identify the prevalence and risk factors of asymptomatic HCV infection and evaluate response
of hepatitis B vaccination among Egyptian children. Materials and Methods: Six hundred children (6-17 years) were
screened for HCV antibodies (HCV Ab) and hepatitis B surface antibody concentration (HBsAb) was quantitated by
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. HCV Ab-seropositive was tested for HCV ribonucleic acid by real-time-polymerase
chain reaction, complete blood count, and liver function tests. Results: 4.7% were diagnosed as HCV Ab-seropositive and
58.5 % as HBsAb-seroprotective (HBsAb ≥10 mIU/ml). History of exposure to blood transfusion, frequent intravenous
injection, history of prior hospitalization and blood exposure were significantly more likely to be among HCV seropositive.
Blood transfusion was considered the most predictable risk factor for HCV infection. There was a significant decrease
in HBsAb concentration with increasing age. Conclusion: Booster dose of hepatitis B vaccine should be considered to
enhance immune protection of the vaccine especially in our endemic area. |
