Estudi prospectiu de l'eficàcia de l'exclusió de donants anti-HCV positius per reduir l'hepatitis postransfusió no A, no B

We have previously demonstrated that in our area the incidence of post-transfusion non A, non B hepatitis is approximately 10% and that at least 90% of them are caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Indirect observations suggest that the exclusion of anti-HCV positive donors would significantly reduce the number of hepatitis cases. The present project is intended to prospectively demonstrate the efficacy of this measure. Patients who undergo surgery and require blood transfusion will be included and compared to a control group of patients belonging to a prior prospective study of post-transfusion hepatitis. These patients will be visited at 6, 8, 12 and 24 weeks after transfusion; ALT will be tested in order to detect acute hepatitis. Patients with ALT elevation will be subjected to a special follow-up until confirmation of the diagnosis. Anti-HCV negative donors implicate in those hepa