Seroepidemiology of HCV and HEV in the rural and urban population of malekan city in Iran. A retrospective study (2005–2006)

• Published in: Pathology 2009-01, Vol.41, p.77-77
• Main Authors: Hassan, Montazam Seyed, Jelvehgari, Mitra
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0031-3025; 1465-3931
• DOI: 10.1097/01268031-200941001-00191

The aim of this research was to estimate the seroepidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) in the rural and urban population of Malekan city in Iran. Blood samples of 346 people were collected and a questionnaire including socio- economical factors was completed for everyone. Then HEV Ab total, HEV IgM and HCV Ab were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Data were analysed by SPSS version 14. Our results showed that four patients were HCV Ab positive. HEV IgM was 0%, therefore there was no acute patient. Sixty-one people had a positive result for HEV IgG. There was no significant difference in HCV prevalence regarding gender, but it was signficant for age. Also, significant correlation was seen with educational rate and HCV, with the highest rate for illiterate and elementary patients. There was no significance for HEV, gender, education rate of patient and their parents. The endemicity of HCV and HEV infection is low in Iran. Thus, there is a need to determine hepatitis E and C prevalence in various regions and provide educational programs about hepatitis. Also, HCV Ab testing is suggested for high risk groups.