Clinical Report: Hepatitis B and C Co-Infection in HIV Patients in Ghana

Overview

This study assesses the seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C among individuals with HIV undergoing antiretroviral treatment in Ghana's Upper East Region. It highlights the significant burden of liver disease in this population and the need for routine screening and integrated care.

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infections are prevalent among people living with HIV (PLHIV), particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. These co-infections complicate HIV treatment and increase the risk of liver-related morbidity and mortality. Understanding the prevalence and factors influencing these co-infections is crucial for improving clinical management and patient outcomes.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Approximately 15.6% of PLHIV in the Upper East Region have chronic HBV infection.
• The prevalence of HCV co-infection among PLHIV is estimated at 8.4%.
• Co-infection with HBV or HCV exacerbates liver injury in PLHIV undergoing ART.
• Routine screening for HBV and HCV is not universally implemented in Ghana.
• Tenofovir-based ART regimens are preferred for patients co-infected with HBV.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should prioritize routine screening for HBV and HCV in PLHIV to identify co-infections early. Tailoring ART regimens to minimize hepatotoxicity is essential, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of HBV and HCV co-infections among PLHIV in Ghana underscores the need for improved screening and integrated management strategies to reduce liver-related morbidity.

References

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2. Drug Safety, 2016 -- Link Between Adverse Drug Events and Changes in First-Line Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy Among HIV Patients in Ghana
3. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 2023 -- Prevalence of Hepatitis D and Its Impact on the Clinical Efficacy of Antiretroviral Therapy in People With HBV/HIV-1 in Guangdong Province, China
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5. Prevalence and burden of HBV co‐infection among people living with HIV: A global systematic review and meta‐analysis - PMC, 2023
6. AASLD/IDSA 2023 Clinical Practice Guidance Update for Testing, Managing, and Treating Hepatitis C Virus Infection
7. Prevalence and burden of HBV co‐infection among people living with HIV: A global systematic review and meta‐analysis - PMC
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