%0 Journal Article
%T Hepatitis E associated determinants and diagnostic biomarkers during pregnancy and its prenatal consequences in Multan, Punjab tertiary care setting (Pakistan).
%A Aisha A
%A Abbas S
%A Eed EM
%A Ahmed D
%A Irfan S
%A Rehman FU
%A Siddique S
%A Naeem M
%J Am J Transl Res
%V 16
%N 5
%D 2024
%M 38883386
%F 3.94
%R 10.62347/SLWM5449
%X <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis in the world. Hepatitis E infection is commonly widespread by the fecal oral routes and contaminated water. This study was designed to explore the prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis E infection in pregnant women of the Multan district, Pakistan.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>The study comprised of a total of 500 enrolled patients, among which, 105 pregnant females with hepatitis E infection fulfilled the criteria for anti-HEV antibodies. Pregnant women without significant complications and without hepatitis E infection were excluded from this study. Hepatic profile, complete blood count, coagulation markers, and standard protocol were also assessed for fetal maternal hemorrhage.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Our results showed that 105 patients (66.66%, CI 95%) had HEV infection with mean age 25±5 years. Serum bilirubin levels were increased in 74 patients (70.47%), aspartate transaminase was elevated > 200 IU/L in 71 patients (67.61%), alanine transaminase was above the 100 IU/L in 65 patients (245 IU/L), and low platelet counts were found in 45 patients (42.85%). Moreover, fetal distress cases were 9 (10.84%) and maternal distress cases were about 11 (13.25%). Fetal mortality cases were 39 (37.14%), and maternal mortality cases were about 22 (20.95%) due to hepatic comma, intravascular coagulation, and hepatic failure.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>It was concluded that the prevalence of Hepatitis E during pregnancy is associated with high risk factors of unhygienic practices, blood transfusion, and noncompliance with universal infection control techniques. Maternal fatalities and fetal consequences were exacerbated by HEV infection.