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Risk assessment of hepatitis C virus seroconversion in haemodialysis patients and units at Sohag

Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the most common cause of chronic hepatitis in haemodialysis (HD) patients. The prevalence of the antibody to HCV is higher in HD patients than in the general population. Aim The aim of this study was the evaluation of risk factors of HCV seroconversion in HD patients. The impact of infection control measures and isolation policy of HCV-positive patients in HD units will be considered. Patients and methods This cohort study included 80 HCV-negative patients on HD at two centres in upper Egypt: one group that adopted the HCV isolation policy and the other where no isolation policy was adopted. HCV seroconversion was determined in the two groups by HCV Ab testing every 3 months during a 3-year period. Other risk factors for HCV infection were reported and evaluation of both units for adherence to standard infection control measures was performed. Results The annual seroconversion rate was higher in the nonisolation unit compared with the isolation unit, but the difference was not statistically significant; a longer duration of HD was found to be a risk factor for HCV seroconversion. Conclusion Strict adherence to universal infection control precautions is the key rule in the management of dialysis patients. The duration of HD (dialytic age) is considered as a risk factor for acquisition of HCV infection.