Non-A, non-B hepatitis and dentistry.
Non-A, non-B hepatitis (hepatitis C) is a viral infection(s) transmitted mainly by blood and blood products. Infection is usually asymptomatic, but typically followed by chronic infection, frequently with chronic liver disease. Although probably less than 1% of the UK population (and hence dental patients) are infected, groups at high risk for other blood-borne infections are also at risk for non-A, non-B hepatitis. Immunisation against hepatitis B cannot protect against non-A, non-B hepatitis; recommended cross-infection procedures must suffice to protect patients and staff.
Porter
S R
SR
University Department of Oral Medicine, Surgery and Pathology, Bristol Dental School and Hospital.
Scully
C
C
D000914:Antibodies, Viral / Q000276:immunology; D003140:Communicable Disease Control / Q000379:methods; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000517:prevention & control; D003729:Dental Care; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000382:microbiology / Q000635:transmission*; D006525:Hepatitis, Viral, Human / Q000635:transmission*; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors
D000914:Antibodies, Viral