| The first-degree relatives of the infected HCV patients do not have sufficient
knowledge of this disease, the risks and dangers involved in contracting HVC, nor do
they understand what the precautionary measures required to prevent the transmission
of this disease. Therefore, it is necessary to study the levels of viremia in these
individuals by RT-PCR to determine whether these persons have contracted the disease.
Methods: In a recent study on chronic hepatitis and their first-degree relatives by the
Tabriz University of Medical Sciences 2138 patients diagnosed with chronic hepatitis
along with their first-degree relatives were referred to the university’s clinic for further
study and examination, the study began in 2011 and is currently in process (2014).
Upon completion of their orientation patients entering the study completed
questionnaires, which included demographic variables and the patient’s medical
records. The following chemical analyses were preformed; liver function test, white
blood cells count (WBC), hematocrit, haptoglobin, albumin, Zn, HBsAg, Anti HBs,
HBe Ag, Anti HBc and Anti HCV tests as well as HCV-RNA study by RT-PCR
method. Results: Serological test results of the 430 cases of first-degree relatives of the
patients diagnosed with hepatitis C, 71 individuals (16.51%) were HCV positive, of
which 11 individuals (15.49%) showed markers for HCV-RNA. In this study it was
established that there is no significant association between hepatitis C and HIV
prevalence in first-degree relatives (P <0.61).Conclusion: Study finding revealed a high
prevalence of the viral infection hepatitis C within the community, it is therefore
essential for laboratory analyses on all first-degree relatives as well as all persons,
exposed to the infected patient. Additionally, due to the high chance of chronic
infection, it is imperative to examine the presence of viremia in all cases of positive
(HCV-Ab) test results. These results may aid in discovery of the possible sources of
infections, the method of transmissions and ultimately, to control and prevention further
infection. |