Hepatitis C in Hemodialysis Patients: Study and Review
Author Information
Author(s): Ratiu Ioana Adela, Mihaescu Adelina, Olariu Nicu, Ratiu Cristian Adrian, Cristian Bako Gabriel, Ratiu Anamaria, Indries Mirela, Fratila Simona, Dejeu Danut, Teusdea Alin, Ganea Mariana, Moisa Corina, Marc Luciana, Harapan Harapan
Primary Institution: University of Oradea
Hypothesis
What are the demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of HCV-positive patients undergoing hemodialysis and the long-term impact of direct-acting antivirals on their outcomes?
Conclusion
HCV infection in hemodialysis patients typically follows a subclinical course, and while liver function stabilizes after DAA therapy, the incidence of malignancies remains high.
Supporting Evidence
- The incidence of malignancies was significantly higher among HCV-positive compared to HCV-negative patients (20.3% vs. 8.1%, p = 0.023).
- Laboratory results showed lower serum cholesterol levels in the HCV-positive DAA-treated group compared to non-treated ones.
- Psychological assessments revealed more severe depression in HCV-positive patients compared to their HCV-negative counterparts.
Takeaway
This study looked at patients on dialysis who have hepatitis C and found that even after treatment, they still have a high chance of getting cancer.
Methodology
A retrospective analysis of 165 hemodialysis patients from Bihor County, Romania, comparing HCV-positive and HCV-negative groups over a period from 2014 to 2024.
Potential Biases
Potential underdiagnosis of HCV due to reliance on immuno-enzymatic methods.
Limitations
The study is retrospective, has a small sample size, and lacks data on liver biopsy and viral load for all patients.
Participant Demographics
The study included 165 hemodialysis patients, with 54 testing positive for HCV and 111 as controls.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.023 for malignancy incidence comparison
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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