Prevalence of Anti-HBc in HIV Patients on ART in Ekiti, Nigeria
Oluyinka Oladele Opaleye
Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Health Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Nigeria.
Atiba Adetona
Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Health Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Nigeria.
Oluremi Adeolu Sunday *
Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Health Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Nigeria.
Ojo Johnson
Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Health Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Nigeria.
Odewale Gbolabo
Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Health Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: In HIV –infected individuals, anti-HBc which is an indicator of occult hepatitis B is a common phenomenon
Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the sero-epidemiology and associated risk factors among HIV-infected individuals in Ikole Ekiti, Nigeria.
Study Population and Duration: HIV/AIDS individuals visiting Institute of Human Virology of Nigeria, Specialist Clinic, Ikole Ekiti between November 2012 and April 2013 were included in this study.
Methodology: One hundred and eighty eight HIV samples were tested for anti-Hepatitis B core antibody by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) {ANTICORASE MB-96 [TMB] from General Biological Corporation}. Data were analysed using software within SPSS packages.
Results: Twenty two (11.7%) of 188 HIV-infected patients had isolated anti-HBc. Co-infection of HIV-HBV in males (3.23%) differed significantly from that of females (8.51%). Highest coinfection (9.57%) was found among adult age group of 20 - 55, while no co-infection was found in teenager age group (13-19 years). Based on occupation, long distance drivers had highest coinfection of 8 (4.26%) while student had lowest prevalence of 2 (1.06%). Isolated anti-HBc among HIV individuals was found in 22 (11.7%) which was significantly high.
Conclusion: Since presence of Anti-HBc has been proved to be an indicator of occult hepatitis B which can cause liver cirrhosis and later lead to hepatocellular carcinoma therefore all patients attending HIV-clinic should also be tested for anti-HBc before commencement of Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).
Keywords: HBV, HIV, Anti-HBc coinfection.