Evaluation of Hepatitis E in Cirrhotic Patients, A Case Control Study

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis E virus is an enterically transmitted virus that is endemic in south Asia and this virus is one of the most important cause of acute hepatitis in this region. Although hepatitis E virus (HEV) is not a leading cause for chronic hepatitis, the role of HEV in exacerbation of chronic liver disease is certain.

Materials and Methods: 100 cirrhotic cases (50 hepatitis B and 50 hepatitis C cases) and 100 healthy controls matched by sex and age checked for IgG anti HEV antibody. Antibody was detected by ELISA method.

Results: IgG antibody was positive in 6% of cirrhotic cases and 5% of healthy controls, statistically, there was no significant difference in HEV seropositivity between cirrhotic patients and healthy controls regarding age and sex.

Conclusion: The majority of our cirrhotic patients were susceptible to hepatitis E and need policy to prevention.