Introduction
Sickle cell disease and Beta thalassemia major are common diseases in Saudi Arabia, especially in Al Ahsa region, and are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Blood transfusion is the mainstay of management of these patients, however this regimen make them at a definite risk of acquiring blood born disease like hepatitis B and C, which could add to the suffering of these patients.
Methodology
This study was a cross sectional study, conducted in 4 hospitals in Al Ahsa region, using structured questionnaire based on patients records and interviews. The study involved 75 of Thalassemia patients registered in thalassemia center, and 251 patients with Sickle cell disease, in order to get the prevalence of hepatitis B and C among SCD and Beta thalassemia patients.
Results
Age of SCD was ranged from 7 to 55 years, their mean age was 22.1±10.2. Majority of them 277 (90.4%) received blood transfusion in their life, and 133 (45.0%) had certain surgical procedures, and 176(70.1%) had some dental procedures in their life, 46(18.35) of the patients had positive hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV), and 3(1.2%) had HBsAg positive. Regarding Beta thalassemia patients, their age ranged from 2 to 33 years, their mean age was 12.8±6.1. All of them received blood transfusion on a chronic bases every 3 to 4 weeks, 32(42.6%) had dental procedures, and 14(18.7%) had certain surgical procedures in their life. 10(13.3%) of Beta thalassemic patients had positive hepatitis C virus antibodies (anti-HCV), and no patients had HBsAg positive. The study showed statistically significant association between hepatitis C and number of blood units, and dental procedure in both sickle cell disease and Beta thalassemia patients.
Conclusion
Hepatitis C is still a major problem in both sickle cell disease and Beta thalassemia major, and it is significantly related to blood transfusion, which is the mainstay of treatment of both SCD and Beta thalassemia patients. There is no vaccine available yet, so certain preventive measures like screening of blood donors is highly indicated, and regular screening of SCD for hepatitis markers is highly recommended, in order to provide a proper follow up and treatment.