Objective:

Determining of seroprevalence of hepatitis A, B and C among pediatric age group in Rize province, comparing with the other regions of country and contribute to the limited number of epidemiological studies in this group.

Materials and Methods:

The study was performed between 01.01.2010-31.12.2011 in pediatric age group between 0-16 years old with different complaints admitted to Rize Training and Research Hospital. ELISA technique was used and Anti-HAV IgM, anti-HAV IgG, HBsAg, anti-HBs, Anti-HBcIgM and G with the anti-HCV tests were analyzed retrospectively.

Results:

1173 children were analyzed (748 male, 425 female). Anti-HAV IgG seropositivity and Anti-HAV IgM positivity were 29.5% and 2.5% respectively. Both Anti-HAV IgM and Anti-HAV IgG seropositivity were detected in 7 patients. In 202 patients were determined Anti-HAV IgG seropositivity (107 male, 95 female). Gender difference was statistically significant (p<0.0001). HBsAg, anti-HBs, Anti-HBcIgM, Anti-HBcIgG and anti-HCV seropositivity of 1173 pediatric patients were detected as 2.4%, 79.4%, 0.5%, 10.1% and 0.6% respectively. Only 3 patients were positive both HBsAg and anti-HBs in. No anti-HIV positivity was determined. HAV, HBV and HCV seropositivity rates among different age groups were not significantly different. Starting of the national immunization program in June 1998, the Anti-HBs and Anti-HBc IgG positivity was seen to be higher in subjects born after 1998 and it was statistically significant.

Conclusion:

The vaccination for HAV infection, as well as education, sanitation measures, together with efficient use of infrastructure and elimination of deficiencies will reduce the incidence of HAV infection. Besides, HBV and HCV seroprevalence rates in our country are compatible with the general population rates. More studies are needed about HBV and HCV seroprevalance for childhood. National hepatitis B vaccination program need to raise awareness in society further in order to achieve the target values.

Keywords: HAV, HBV, HCV, seroprevalence, the pediatric age group