Hyperendemic foci of hepatitis B infection in Arunachal Pradesh, India.
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2007-10-05
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Abstract
AIM: To study the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among an isolated tribe of Northeast India that migrated long back from Tibet.
METHODS AND MATERIALS: Randomly selected 438 subjects from Idu Mishmi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh were screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc), hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs), envelope antigen (HBeAg) using ELISA kits.
RESULTS: The point prevalence of HBsAg was found to be 21.2% (93/438). Anti-HBc prevalence was 92.3% (193/209). Anti-HBs above 10 IU/ml were detected in 48% (96/200). Prevalence of HBeAg was higher (42.1%, 16/38) in children (less than 15 years) compared to adolescent and adults (32.7%, 18/55). History of hepatitis was significantly associated with positive HBsAg status (p < 0.000).
CONCLUSION: Hepatitis B virus infection is hyperendemic among Idu Mishmi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Though, the route of transmission could not be ascertained, but the high HBV infection (78.6%) among less than 5 yrs and the finding of 58.4% of HBsAg positive mothers bearing HBsAg positive child indicates possibility of vertical transmission in this setting.
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Biswas D, Borkakoty BJ, Mahanta J, Jampa L, Deouri LC. Hyperendemic foci of hepatitis B infection in Arunachal Pradesh, India. Journal of the Association of Physicians of India. 2007 Oct; 55(): 701-4