Muhammad Zille Humayun, Imran Ahmed, Tassawar Hussain.
Risk of transmission of Hepatitis-B and C viruses in upper gastrointestinal Endoscopy - a hospital based study.
Pak Armed Forces Med J Jan ;57(2):113-7.

Background: A study was carried out at Gastroenterology department Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, from 6th June to 24th October 2002, to assess the risk of upper gastrointestinal endoscopic procedure as a route of transmission of HBV and HCV. Methods: One hundred consecutive patients reporting for endoscopy at Gastroenterology department, MH, Rawalpindi, fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. Their base-line HBV and HCV status were assessed prior to endoscopy. They were then recalled after 04 months to re- assess the HBV and HCV status. Results: Two patients (2%) tested positive for HBsAg, and none for Anti HCV antibodies, after 04 months of the procedure. One of the HBsAg positives had a history of unchecked blood transfusion after the endoscopy. Conclusion: Endoscopy is a very safe procedure provided strict disinfection techniques are followed. However, staff and patient education regarding preventive methods against HBV and HCV remains the cornerstone in avoiding their transmission.

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