Transfusional transmitted virus seroprevalence in asymptomatic HBsAg(+) hepatitis B carriers

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the transfusional transmitted virus (TTV) seroprevalence in asymptomatic HBsAg (+) patients and to assess the influence of TTV on the course of these patients. Methods: Sixty asymptomatic HBV carriers were included and 31 healthy volunteers served as controls. Cases were followed at 6-month intervals for a total duration of 4 years. Results: In the asymptomatic carrier group, 31 patients (51.7%) had a history of surgery and 10 (16.7%) had a history of blood transfusions. TTV-DNA was detected in 45 of these patients (75%). In the control group, 12 patients (38.7%) had a history of surgery and 2 had (6.5%) a history of blood transfusions. TTV-DNA was found in 20 (64.5%) of these subjects. The incidence of TTV-DNA positivity was not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: In spite of the common occurrence of HBV and TTV, TTV-DNA was also detected in 64.5% of healthy controls. Furthermore, during 4 years of follow up, TTV had no detrimental effects on the course of asymptomatic HBV carriers. These results suggest that the hepatic injury due to TTV is insignificant in this group of patients.