Virology Journal (Sep 2010)

Seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C virus in HIV-1 and HIV-2 infected Gambians

  • Hall Andrew,
  • Cotten Matt,
  • Peterson Kevin,
  • Alabi Abraham,
  • Sarge-Njie Ramu,
  • Jeng Adam,
  • Peterson Ingrid,
  • Malfroy Marine,
  • Jobarteh Modou,
  • Rowland-Jones Sarah,
  • Whittle Hilton,
  • Tedder Richard,
  • Jaye Assan,
  • Mendy Maimuna

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1743-422X-7-230
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 7, no. 1
p. 230

Abstract

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Abstract Background The prevalence of HIV/hepatitis co-infection in sub-Saharan Africa is not well documented, while both HIV and HBV are endemic in this area. Objective The aim of this study is to determine the seroprevalence of HBV and HCV virus in HIV-infected subjects in the Gambia. Methods Plasma samples from HIV infected patients (190 individuals with clinically defined AIDS and 382 individuals without AIDS) were tested retrospectively for the presence of HBV sero-markers and for serum HBV DNA, screened for HCV infection by testing for anti-HCV antibody and HCV RNA. Results HBsAg prevalence in HIV-positive individuals is 12.2%. HIV/HBV co-infected individuals with CD4 count of Conclusion The prevalence of HBsAg carriage in HIV- infected Gambians is similar to that obtained in the general population. However co-infected individuals with reduced CD4 levels, indicative of AIDS had higher prevalence of HBeAg retention and elevated HBV DNA levels compared to non-AIDS patients with higher CD4 count.