Molecular evaluation of HCV infection by RT-PCR test in major beta thalassemia patients, Hajar Hospital of Shahrekord

Background and Objectives Multiple studies in Iran reported different prevalence rates for HCV infection in thalassemics but most studies were based on serologic tests not on molecular tests. The present study was carried out to determine the prevalence of HCV in thalassemics based on serologic and molecular tests. Materials and Methods A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 91 thalassemic patients. Demographic data were obtained from patient files and serum specimens were tested by ELISA for anti-HCV antibody and by RT-PCR for HCV RNA. Serum aminotransferase (ALT&AST) were also tested. Results Out of 91 patients, 41 (45%) were male and 50 (55%) female, with mean age range of 13.2 ± 5.7 years. The overall prevalence rate of anti-HCV was 21% (19.91, CI 95%=17.77-25.82). Nine of anti-HCV positive patients (9.19, 47%) were HCV RNA positive and 98% had high serum level of ALT and AST. Anti HCV- positive patients were significantly older than anti HCV-negative ones (p< 0.005). Conclusions Because all anti HCV- positive patients do not have active HCV infection, it is suggested that before any decision to be made in case of seropositve thalassemic patients HCV infection be confirmed by RT- PCR and other precise tests.