Surveillance and impact of occult hepatitis B virus, SEN virus, and Torque teno virus in Egyptian hemodialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection

Abstract Objectives Egypt ranks first regarding the prevalence of HCV infection. Many patients have concomitant diseases like kidney disorders compelling hemodialysis, a procedure carrying the hazard of transmitting other hepatitis viruses. The purpose of this study is to surveil occult hepatitis B virus (HBV), SEN virus (SENV), and torque teno virus (TTV) among chronic HCV patients on maintenance hemodialysis to identify their impacts. Methods A total of325 hemodialysis patients were enrolled and divided into two groups based on HCV RNA testing. Blood samples were collected before hemodialysis. Sera were tested for antibodies to hepatitis B core (HBc) and surface antigens using ELISA. HBV, SENV, and TTV DNAs were detected by PCR. The ALT serum level was measured. Results HBc antibodies and HBV DNA were detected in 73.1% and 50.8% of group 1 versus 36.4% and 22.6% of group 2. ALT level was higher in group 1 than group 2. SENV was detected in 11.5% of group 1 versus 8.2% of group 2. TTV was detected in 29% of group 1 versus 27% of group 2. Conclusion There is an increased prevalence of occult HBV in our locality among chronic HCV patients undergoing hemodialysis. The existence of SEN and TT viremia has no clinical impact.