Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus Infection and Factors Associated in HIV Infected Patients in Yaoundé (Cameroon)

Abstract

The Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) infection is one of the main causes of acute viral hepatitis. This affection is generally asymptomatic and benign. Its incidence is elevated in sub Saharan Africa. In Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infected patients, the HEV can cause chronic hepatitis with risks of cirrhosis and cancer. Assessing the prevalence and risk factors of an HEV infection in people living with HIV can help to prevent the transmission and the onset of their complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of HEV markers and associated factors among HIV infected patients in Yaoundé (Cameroon). Ninety HIV infected patients were included in this study, with 29 men (32.2%) and 61 women (67.8%). The mean age was 46 ± 11.4 years old (21 - 74). The prevalence of HEV serological markers was 6.7% and 12.2% for immunoglobulins (IgG) and IgM respectively. Both IgG and IgM were positive for 2 patients (2.2%), while 15 patients (16.7%) had at least one immunoglobin positive. The consumption of well water and porcine foods was found to be associated with the presence of IgM HEV antibodies. There was no association between CD4 count, viral load and the presence of HEV serological markers.