Prevalence of hepatitis C, hepatitis B, and human immunodeficiency virus in a Grand Rapids, Michigan emergency department.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study is to provide updated prevalence information on hepatitis C, hepatitis B, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among patients in a high-volume emergency department (ED) located in a medium-sized, Midwestern city.


BACKGROUND
This study provides updated information regarding the prevalence of the blood-borne pathogens hepatitis C, hepatitis B, and HIV among ED patients. Prior studies of this type have focused on large inner-city populations with high incidence rates of blood-borne diseases. These studies have limited applicability to other common ED settings.


METHODS
A convenience sample of 404 patients was selected using blood previously drawn independent of the study. Patient-identifying information was unlinked from study results, which allowed waiver of informed consent from the Institutional Review Board. This blood was then tested for hepatitis C, hepatitis B, and HIV.


RESULTS
Prevalence of hepatitis C antibody was 4.0%, relative to the overall US population prevalence of 1.8%. Hepatitis B(s)Ag was present in 0.7% and HIV prevalence was 0.8%. There were no coinfections; therefore, there was a combined prevalence of blood-borne pathogens of 5.5%.


CONCLUSIONS
The combined prevalence of blood-borne pathogens of 5.5% supports previous recommendations of universal precautions, particularly in settings where the overall prevalence may be underestimated.
Hall
Mark R
MR
Kent County Health Department, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, USA.
Ray
Dale
D
Payne
Julie A
JA
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000453:epidemiology*; D015528:HIV Seroprevalence; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008824:Michigan / Q000453:epidemiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D015995:Prevalence; D014193:Trauma Centers / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D055815:Young Adult