Hepatitis-related viral markers in patients under long-term hemodialysis
Tseng, B.W.; Chue, N.W.; Chen, K.T.
Zhonghua Minguo Wei Sheng Wu Ji Mian Yi Xue Za Zhi 20(4): 290-294
1987
ISSN/ISBN: 0253-2662 PMID: 2452721 Document Number: 287366
Antibody profiles for hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis A virus (HAV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) were determined on 55 serum samples collected from patients with chronic renal failure who were on long-term haemodialysis for periods ranging from 8 months to 5 years and 3 months. The exposure rates for HBV, HAV, CMV, EBV and HIV were 94.5%, 100%, 94.5%, 94.5% and 0% respectively. Among the 7 HBsAg carriers, 1 and 3 were positive for e antigen (HBeAg) and antibody to HBeAg (anti-HBe), respectively and three negative for both. These 7 carriers were also negative for anti-delta antibody. A comparison of the above antiviral profiles to those of voluntary blood donors and general population in this district revealed tht there is no difference for HBV, HAV, CMV and EBV exposure rates, VDRL, alpha-fetoprotein and CEA were also tested and the results showed no abnormalities. Only 3 patients had abnormally elevated SGOT and SGPT levels; the causes were undetermined because all of them gave positive HBV, HAV, CMV and EBV antibody profiles. In conclusion the screening of HBsAg and VDRL in the blood banks virtually eliminated possible infections of HBV and spirochate by blood transfusion and the patients with chronic renal failure who are maintained on long-term haemodialysis are generally not at higher risks of hepatitis-related viral infections.