Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Solid-organ transplant recipients are at risk of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection. We analyzed the seroprevalence/risk factors of HEV in Croatian liver transplant recipients.
METHODS
Two hundred forty-two serum samples were tested for HEV immunoglobuline IgG/IgM and HEV RNA. Sociodemographic data and risk factors were collected using a questionnaire.
RESULTS
HEV IgG seroprevalence rate was 24.4%. Positive/equivocal HEV IgM were found in two patients. HEV RNA was not detected. Logistic regression showed that older age, female gender, rural area/farm, water well, and septic tank were associated with HEV seropositivity.
CONCLUSIONS
This study revealed a high exposure rate to HEV in Croatian liver recipients.
Keywords:
Hepatitis E vírus; Seroprevalence; Risk factors; Liver transplant recipientes; Croatia