Biochemical and Socio-epidemiological Analysis of Different Types of Hepatitis

Abstract

Hepatitis is a major disease burden associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality especially in developing countries. This study was conducted to determine the frequency of hepatitis Band C viral infections among abnormal liver test patients. Association of viral infections with livcr func tion test parameters and socio-epidemiological factors was also determined . We obtained socio-epidemiological data of 1000 individuals, suspected of liver dysfunction. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase were determined using chemistry analyzer. Presence of hepatitis B surface antigens and anti-hepatitis C virus antibodies was detected by an enzyme lI11munoassay in individuals having raised levels of alanine aminotransferase and bi! iru bin. Out of 1000 subj ects tested for liver fl.l11ction markers, only 132 (13.2(%) had abnormal liver function test with higher preva lence in males (7.7 % versus 5.5 %), 20- 40 years age group (20-40 years; 6.3 % , 41-60 years; 5.1 % , > 60 years; 1.8 %), socially deprived individuals (79.5 %) and subjects using medicines (41.7 %). A statistically significant association was observed between hepatitis B surface antigen and socio-epidemiological factors; female gender, self/family history of hepatitis and low socioeconomic status, anti-hepatitis C virus antibodies and socio-epidemiological fact()rs; femal e gender, surgical history, body piercing, history of dental treatment and low socioeconomic status. Odd ratios, 95 % confidence interval and probability value were used to determine statistical significance. Alanine aminotransferase and bilirubin leve ls were significantly higher in subjects with viral hepatitis than without viral hepatitis. Higher level of endemicity of hepatitis Band C viral infections and their assoc iation with elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase and bilirubin highlights the importance of diagnostic tests for viral hepatitis especially in individuals with marked elevations in the level of alanine aminotransferase and bilirubin. To reduce viral infections due to social inequity and nosocomial factors, some regulatory policies should be considered.