Saudi Journal of Pathology and Microbiology (SJPM)
Volume-4 | Issue-03 | 254-257
Original Research Article
A Study on Seroprevalence of Hepatitis A Virus and Hepatitis E Virus and Their Co-Infection in District Hospital
Sangeeta D. Patel, Pankti Panchal, Sima Bhatt
Published : March 31, 2019
Abstract
Introduction: ‘Viral Hepatitis’ denotes a primary infection of liver by heterogeneous group of Hepatitis virus. They are
clinically indistinguishable, leading to morbidity and mortality. Mainly diagnosed by serological and molecular markers.
Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E viruses are transmitted by faeco-oral route and cause sporadic as well as outbreaks of acute
viral hepatitis. Objectives: Prevalence of HAV and HEV in patients of acute viral hepatitis along with their co-existence
and correlate it with seasonal trend. Materials & Methods: Study was conducted in our institute from January to
December, 2018. 275 samples were tested for HAV and HEV infection of clinically suspected cases. Samples were
analyzed for anti HEV IgM and anti HAV IgM antibody by ELISA method. Results: Out of 275 samples, 66 were
positive for anti HAV IgM indicating prevalence rate of 24%, majority patients were in pediatric age group of 0-14 yrs.
In case of HEV, 71 samples were positive with prevalence rate of 25.8%, majority patients were in age group 15-45 yrs.
Infection rate was higher in males. Co infection rate was 1.09%. Seasonal trend shows maximum positive cases in
summer and monsoon. Conclusion: HAV and HEV infection should be considered as an etiology of acute infectious
viral hepatitis. It is suggested that health care facilities should make an effort to increase the awareness among general
public for personal hygiene and cleanliness, thus reduce morbidity, mortality and economic burden.