Measurement of HEV Specific RNA Transcripts in Peripheral Blood of Haemodialysis Patients and Normal Individuals Using RTPCR and Comparison to Their Serological Findings

Abstract

Introduction:Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute viral hepatitis, which cause chronicity in immunocompromised patients, patients undergoing hemodialysis. There is Limited Indian data exist on the diagnostic utility of HEV RNA detection compared to serology in this high-risk group.

Method:This case–control study was done at a tertiary care center after ethical approval. A total of 80 patients on maintenance hemodialysis (HD group) and 277 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were included for the study. HEV infection was assessed by anti-HEV antibody detection using ELISA and HEV RNA detection by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Clinical and biochemical parameters were also checked.

Result:HEV RNA was detected in 6 (7.5%) HD patients and 7 (2.5%) controls (p=0.285). Anti-HEV antibodies were present in 5 (6.3%) HD patients and 8 (2.9%) controls (p=0.178). A significant correlation was observed between RNA and antibody positivity (p<0.001). There was no associations  found with gender-wise differences or liver function parameters.

Conclusion:Molecular detection of HEV RNA showed higher prevalence in HD patients compared to controls, although not statistically significant. Combined serological and molecular testing enhances diagnostic accuracy in this vulnerable group.