Frequency of Hepatitis C in admitted patients of Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital, Lahore

Abstract

Objective: To assess the frequency of hepatitis C in admitted patients of department of obstetrics and gynaecology Ghurki trust teaching hospital, Lahore. Design: Descriptive study Place and duration of study: This study was conducted on patients admitted in obstetrics and gynaecology ward Ghurki trust teaching hospital, Lahore from 1st January 2005 to 31st December 2005. Patients and methods: A total of 1569 patients of age between 20 to 70 years were admitted in obstetrics and gynaecology ward Ghurki trust teaching hospital, Lahore and were screened for anti-HCV antibodies by 3rd generation ELISA. All positive patients were asked about previous history of jaundice, surgery, blood transfusion, multiple injections and dental procedures. Results: Out of 1569 patients 107 were found to be anti-HCV positive. Mean age of patients was 34.5 years. Frequency of anti-HCV was maximum (38.3%) in 31-40 years age group and in gynaecology patients (12.5%). Previous history of multiple injections and dai handling were the most commonly associated factors. Co-existent hepatitis B and C was found in only 2 (1.8%) patients. Conclusion: Hepatitis C is becoming an alarmingly common problem in the area of Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital, Lahore. Its modes of transmission need to be properly evaluated for its control and prevention.