Abstract

Prevalence of viral hepatitis b and c in chronic hemodialysis in the region casablanca settat

Author(s): Dr. Imane Failal

Introduction: Viral hepatitis B and C has been one of the perilous problems in chronic hemodialysis (HDC). It is a serious public health issue in this population due to its high prevalence and risk of becoming a chronic disease and developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

The objective: This study is aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HCV, potential risk factors and the effectiveness of anti-viral treatment in chronic hemodialysis patients in 14 different centers of hemodialysis in the region of Casablanca Settat.

Results: In the light of the serological survey, the prevalence of antibodies against HCV positive is 6.4%, and that of HBs antigen is 0.88%.

There is no significant difference between HCV+ and HCV- patients’ age, sex, transfusion and the number of packed red blood cells In addition to that, the median duration in hemodialysis  as well as the number of attended hemodialysis centers are significantly higher in the HCV + group (P <0.01). While no risk factor has been implicated in hepatitis B infection (P = NS). 17 patients in our series were treated for viral hepatitis C. 7 of them had received a treatment based on the association “sofosbuvir 400 mg/j” and “daclatasvir 60 mg/j”. SVR at 12 weeks after discontinuation of treatment was obtained in 100% of cases. Tolerance was very good.

Conclusion: The seroprevalence of HCV in Moroccan hemodialysis is gradually decreasing, and the factor of transfusion is incriminated and gradually loses its importance. However, seniority in hemodialysis and the number of hemodialysis centers attended seem to be a factor favoring the Adherence to hygiene measures and the rigorous application of prevention recommendations against HCV transmission could further improve the prevalence of hepatitis C in dialysis units