Correlation of Haemoglobin and Haematocrit with Hepatitis C Infection Among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis in a Tertiary Hospital in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a major cause of morbidity among patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis. This study investigates the correlation between hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), and HCV infection in these patients, aiming to provide insights into the hematological implications of HCV in hemodialysis patients.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at the Hemodialysis Center of Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ogun State, Nigeria, between April and May 2019. A total of 40 participants were recruited using the Cochran formula for sample size determination, with an expected HCV prevalence of 4.8%. Patients with chronic kidney disease, who had undergone blood transfusion, and those undergoing hemodialysis were included. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for complete blood count (CBC) and HCV status using ELISA and real-time PCR methods. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS to assess the correlation between Hb, HCT, and HCV infection.

Results: The mean hemoglobin concentration was 10.13 ± 1.99 g/dL, and the mean packed cell volume was 30.81 ± 5.90%. There was no significant correlation between HCV status and either Hb (r = -0.028, p = 0.865) or HCT (r = -0.014, p = 0.932). Additionally, patients with positive HCV status did not show significant differences in Hb and HCT compared to HCV-negative patients. However, there was a significant association between HCV status and family history of hepatitis infection (p < 0.000), and previous HCV diagnosis (p = 0.043).

Conclusion: There is no significant correlation between hemoglobin and hematocrit levels with HCV status in hemodialysis patients. However, family history and previous HCV infection are significant factors associated with HCV status. Further studies are needed to explore the hematological impact of HCV in hemodialysis patients.