Decrease in HDV endemicity in Italy.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate a possible variation in hepatitis D virus endemicity in Italy, the data from a multicentre study concerning HBsAg chronic carriers first observed in 31 liver units during 1992 were compared with the corresponding figures from a similar study performed in 1987.


RESULTS
In both studies the methodology for the recruitment of cases was the same. The overall anti-HD prevalence in 1992 was 14.4%, a significantly lower rate than that observed in 1987 (23.4%, p < 0.01). The decrease significantly (p < 0.01) affected both males and females; it occurred in all geographical areas, although to a greater extent in northern regions. It was evident in subjects below 50 years of age, but not in subjects older than 50. A significant reduction in the anti-HD prevalence was seen in all forms of chronic hepatitis.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings indicate a lower level of hepatitis D virus endemicity in Italy, probably as a consequence of the reported decreased pool of HBsAg chronic carriers, the reduced size of families, the improved socio-economic conditions and changes in intravenous drug abuser behaviour. All these factors may have affected the strength of hepatitis D virus infection which has greatly reduced the spread of the virus.
Sagnelli
E
E
Clinic for Tropical Diseases, Second University of Naples, Italy.
Stroffolini
T
T
Ascione
A
A
Chiaramonte
M
M
Craxì
A
A
Giusti
G
G
Piccinino
F
F
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002353:Carrier State; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques; D019353:Endemic Diseases; D005260:Female; D006514:Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / Q000097:blood*; D003699:Hepatitis D / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000821:virology; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007558:Italy / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors
D006514:Hepatitis B Surface Antigens