Vol. 5, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a significant health concern among multitransfused thalassemia patients, despite advances in blood screening protocols. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HCV infection and identify associated risk factors in a cohort of regularly transfused thalassemia patients.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 150 thalassemia patients receiving regular blood transfusions. Participants were screened for HCV antibodies using ELISA, with positive cases confirmed by RT-PCR. Demographic data, transfusion history, and clinical parameters were collected and analyzed. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests, odds ratios, and multivariate analysis to identify risk factors associated with HCV infection.
Results: Among the 150 participants (54.7% male, mean age 12.5±8.3 years), 42 (28%) tested positive for HCV antibodies, with 38 (25.3%) confirmed positive by RT-PCR. Significant risk factors for HCV infection included age >10 years (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.4-5.6, p = 0.003), transfusion duration >5 years (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.6-6.4, p = 0.001), and receiving >15 transfusions/year (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2-5.1, p = 0.012). HCV-positive patients demonstrated significantly higher levels of liver enzymes (ALT 72.5±38.4 vs 38.2±22.6 IU/L, p<0.001) and serum ferritin (3250±1450 vs 2580±1280 ng/mL, p = 0.024).
Conclusion: The study reveals a considerable prevalence of HCV infection in multitransfused thalassemia patients, with significant associations with transfusion duration and frequency. These findings emphasize the need for enhanced screening protocols, regular monitoring, and implementation of preventive strategies to reduce HCV transmission in this vulnerable population.