Prevalence of chronic viral hepatitis in drug abusers

: Authors examined the prevalence of hepatitis B, C and D viral infections in Hungarian drug users. Between January 1995 and October 1998 256 examinations were made (58% intravenous, 42% non intravenous drug user). Hepatitis C virus infection in 27 patients, hepatitis C and B virus infection in 4 patients, hepatitis B virus infection in 17 patients was detected. Every hepatitis B virus positive case was past infection. Hepatitis D virus infection was not detected. Clinically overt liver disease was proved in more than half of the hepatitis C virus infected patients. Because of insufficient collaboration only 11 were followed up. Liver biopsy was made in 5 cases. Interferon therapy was indicated in 3 cases. The 24% of intravenous drug users was anti-HCV seropositive contrary to 1.4% of non intravenous group. Anti-HCV seropositivity was proved in 38% in common needle users, while in disposable needle users only 3%. The prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection in intravenous drug users is rather frequent in Hungary too. The exact diagnosis of liver diseases is very difficult as for insufficient collaboration. The prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection in i.v. and non i.v. drug users is the same as in the normal population. The importance of information, especially to avoid common needle use is stressed.