Non-A, non-B hepatitis in patients on dialysis: retrospective evaluation of measures taken to limit the diffusion of the virus.
329 patients were evaluated from 1978 to 1990. 40 new cases of non-A non-B hepatitis were observed, all regarding patients on hemodialysis. Since the beginning of 1989, we introduced measures to limit the diffusion of the virus: reduction to a minimum of blood transfusions and a new disinfection protocol for monitors, instruments and surroundings. Of the 40 new cases, 30 took place between January 1985 and March 1989, only 2 later. If we consider the annual incidence before and after the introduction of preventive measures, we can observe a significant reduction in NANB hepatitis incidence in the last 2 years.
La Russa
A
A
Department of Nephrology, Cremona Hospital, Italy.
Bufano
G
G
Cauzzi
L
L
Pecchini
P
P
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006525:Hepatitis, Viral, Human / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013242:Sterilization