Incidence of human herpes virus 8 (HHV 8) infections in risk groups of the population

OBJECTIVE: To identify and to examine the population groups at highest risk of acquiring HHV8 infection. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Indirect immunofluorescence test (IIF) for detection of IgG antibodies to the lytic antigen of HHV 8. RESULTS: In total 101 STD patients of a dermatovenerological clinic, 129 HIV - negative homosexual men - who have asked for voluntary HIV testing and 37 patients with repeated blood transfusions were tested. The highest number of patients - 13 (10 %) with IgG antibodies to the lytic antigen of HHV 8 was found in the group of HIV - negative homosexual men. CONCLUSIONS: In the Czech Republic are at highest risk of HHV 8 infection (except HIV positive persons), HIV negative men.