Hepatitis C Virus RNA Viremia in Central Africa
Author Information
Author(s): Nicole Cancre, Gerard Gresenguet, Francois-Xavier Mbopi-Keou, Alain Kozemaka, Ali Si Mohamed, Mathieu Matta, Jean-Jacques Fournel, Laurent Belec
Primary Institution: Universite Pierre et Marie Curie, Hopital Broussais, Paris, France
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among blood donors in Central Africa?
Conclusion
The study confirmed a high prevalence of HCV-seropositivity and a significant rate of HCV RNA in blood donations in Bangui.
Supporting Evidence
- 15 out of 163 samples contained IgG to HCV by ELISA.
- 10 samples were positive for both HCV antibodies and HCV RNA.
- The agreement between ELISA and the rapid test was 98.7%.
Takeaway
This study found that many blood donors in Central Africa have hepatitis C, which can be passed on through blood transfusions.
Methodology
Blood donors were tested for anti-HCV antibodies and HCV RNA using ELISA and PCR methods.
Limitations
The study may not account for false-positive results in HCV serologic tests.
Participant Demographics
The mean age of participants was 30.8 years, with 155 male donors and 83 first-time donors.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 5%-15%
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