Objective:
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in patients chronically infected with Hepatitis B Virus (HBV).
Methods:
The study was conducted on chronic hepatitis B patients followed in the Istanbul Training and Research Hospital. The prevalence of anti-HDV and anti-HCV antibodies was investigated in a total of 1339 patients with chronic hepatitis B infection.
Results:
Of the total 1339 patients testing positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), 46 (3.4%)were found to be seropositive for HDV, and 26 (1.9%) were seropositive for HCV.
Conclusion:
We conclude that HDV and HCV infections should be investigated in patients with chronic hepatitis B.
Keywords: Chronic hepatitis B, anti-Hepatitis D Virus (anti-HDV), anti- Hepatitis C Virus (anti-HCV), seroprevalence