SEROLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS OF HAV AND HEV AND THEIR PREVALENCE IN CLINICALLY SUSPECTED CASES OF ACUTE VIRAL HEPATITIS

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 between various clinical/serological/biochemical parameters.

MATERIALS & METHODS: Study was conducted in our institute from January to August, 2012. 922 samples were tested for HAV and HEV infection of clinically suspected cases. Samples were analysed for IgM anti HEV and IgM anti HAV antibody by ELISA method. They were followed up clinically and correlated with their biochemical parameters.

RESULTS: Out of 922 samples, 57 were positive for anti HAV IgM indicating prevalence rate of 6.18%, majority patients were in paediatric age group 5-10 yrs. In case of HEV, 308 samples were positive with prevalence rate of 33.40%, majority patients were in adult age group 21-30 yrs. Sclera icterus was main presenting complain with serum billirubin ranging between 3.1-6.0 mg/dl in 44.93 %. In 27.94% patients increased SGPT level was between 501-750 IU/l. Infection rate was higher in males. Co infection rate was 2.57%.

CONCLUSION: Study shows high prevalence of HEV than HAV. Prevalence was higher in adult & paediatric age group in case of HEV & HAV respectively. Jaundice was most common sign with increased billirubin & SGPT level in serum. Improving personal hygiene and better sanitation will reduce the infection rate.

KEY WORDS: Hepatitis A virus (HAV), Hepatitis E virus (HEV), Jaundice, Seroprevalence