Known and probable risk factors for hepatitis C infection: A case series in north-eastern Poland

• 作 者: Sawomir Chlabicz Robert Flisia
• 机 构: S(l)awomir Chlabicz(Department of Family Medicine and Community Nursing,Department of Infectious Dis
• 出 处: 世界胃肠病学杂志（英文版）
• 发表日期: 2004年期
• 关键词: Hepatitis C Risk factors

AIM: To describe the risk profile of patients in hospital with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in Poland.METHOD: Using a structured questionnaire, all patients with confirmed HCV infection were interviewed about the risk factors.RESULTS: Among the 250 patients studied, transfusion before 1993 was the primary risk factor in 26%,intravenous drug use setting in 9% and occupational exposure in health-care in 9%. Women were more likely to have a history of occupational exposure or transfusion before 1993 and less likely to undergo minor surgery.Known nosocomial risk factors (transfusion before 1993,dialysis) were responsible for 27% of infections, probable nosocomial factors (transfusions after 1992, minor surgery) for 14% and further 9% were occupationally acquired infections.CONCLUSION: A careful history investigation can identify a known or probable risk factor for HCV acquisition in 59% of patients with HCV infection.Preventive activities in Poland should focus on infection control measures in health-care setting.