Prevalence of non A to E hepatitis in Mumbai, India

Abstract

Introduction: Acute viral hepatitis is a common problem in India. World wide data shows that 5 to 20 percent of this is
caused by non A-E hepatitis. There is no data in India regarding non A-E hepatitis. We carried out this study to evaluate the
epidemiology, clinical features, risk factors and outcome of non A-E hepatitis. Material and methods: In this single centre
study, we evaluated all patients admitted with features of acute viral hepatitis at our hospital between the period of February
to July 2015. A detailed history about the epidemiology, risk factors and clinical features was done. Patients were evaluated
with bilirubin, transaminases and prothrombin time. Each patient was investigated for IgM HAV, IgM HEV, HBsAg and Antibody
against hepatitis C. Patients turning out negative were investigated for presence of autoimmune hepatitis or Wilson’s disease.
All viral markers were repeated a week later to confirm non A-E status. Results: A total 265 patients were included of which
41 (15.4%) patients were non A-E hepatitis. They had higher age (28.55 vs 34.99, p<0.05) but similar gender and sub urban
location. Median SEC classification was A2 in hepatitis A/E group as compared to A3 in non A-E group. The duration of
symptoms and clinical features between the two groups were similar with Anorexia, Malasie, Nausea/vomiting being most
common. The risk factors between the two groups were similar. The bilirubin and transaminases were non significantly lower
than hepatitis A/E patients while albumin levels were significantly lower. The outcomes of both groups were similar with no
mortality or fulminant hepatitis. Conclusion: Non A-E hepatitis patients tends to be older, lower SEC class and had lower
albumin levels as compared to hepatitis A/E.