Seroprevalence of hepatitis b virus (hbv), hepatitis c virus (hcv) and human immunodeficiency virus (hiv) in a sample of patients diagnosed with alcohol user disorder in Albacete (Spain)

Abstract

BACKGROUND // Studies report a higher prevalence of HCV, HBV and HIV in the population with Alcohol Use Disorder. Our objective is to determine the seroprevalence for hepatitis B and C and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in patients with alcohol use disorder, as well as to determine if there is a correct serological screening of these.

METHODS // Retrospective study of 204 patients with Alcohol Use Disorder followed up in the Addictive Behaviors Unit from Albacete. They started treatment from 2013-2014 onwards, the last patient was recruited in December of 2017.

RESULTS // Our sample has 160 men (78.4%) and 44 women (21.6%). The median age is 46.2 years. 161 patients (78.9%) had HIV serology and it was negative in all. 146 patients (71.6%) had negative hepatitis B serology and 12 (5.9%) were vaccinated. 36 patients (17.6%) had no hepatitis B serology performed. In 10 patients, hepatitis B serology was positive (4.9%; 95% CI 1.9-7.9%). 159 patients (77.9%) had negative hepatitis C serology, and 37 patients had not performed it (18.1%). 8 patients had positive serology (prevalence of 3.9%; 95% CI 1.2-6.6%). Excluding patients who did not have serology, seroprevalence was 5.9% (95% CI 2.3-9.6%) and 4.8% (95% CI 1.5-8.1%) respectively. Failure to perform serologies was associated with older age and less weekly Standard Drink Units (SDUs) consumption.

CONCLUSIONS // The seroprevalence of HBV and HCV in patients with alcohol use disorder is high. It should be ensured that 100% of patients with alcohol use disorder undergo HCV, HIV, HBV serology, reducing the loss of diagnostic opportunities.