Hepatitis virus seroconversion among patients on maintenance hemodialysis in North India: a prospective cohort study
10.24171/j.phrp.2025.0508
- Author:
Pooja YADAV
1
;
Arpita PANDA
;
Shilpee KUMAR
;
Rajesh KUMAR
;
Deepthi NAIR
Author Information
1. Department of Microbiology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
- Publication Type:Brief Report
- From:
Osong Public Health and Research Perspectives
2026;17(2):182-187
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objectives:Patients receiving hemodialysis (HD) are at increased risk of acquiring hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) due to repeated blood exposure, vascular access procedures, and blood transfusions. The study aimed to determine the seroconversion rates of HBV and HCV among patients undergoing dialysis and to identify associated risk factors.
Methods:A total of 220 adult patients receiving dialysis who were seronegative for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibodies at baseline were enrolled. Serologic testing was repeated at 6 months.
Results:Sixteen patients (7.3%) seroconverted to HBsAg positivity, and 23 (10.5%) seroconvertedto anti-HCV positivity. HBV seroconversion was significantly associated with multiple dialysis center visits. HCV seroconversion was significantly associated with dialyzer reuse, multiple dialysis center visits, and dialysis duration ≥2 years. Elevated liver enzyme levels were stronglycorrelated with seroconversion for both viruses.
Conclusion:HBV and HCV seroconversion remain concerns in HD units. Standardized infection control practices, minimization of patient transfers, and strict adherence to nationalguidelines are essential to reducing risk.
