Prevalência da infecção pelo vírus da hepatite B em duas comunidades ribeirinhas de afluentes do Tocantins

Abstract

The infection by the hepatitis B virus reaches 5% of the world population, with areas of low, intermediate, and high endemism according to the variation in prevalence rates. The study aims to evaluate the prevalence of infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) in two tributaries of the river communities of Tocantins, in order to assist with control of viral hepatitis for the Amazon region. We evaluated 58 patients living in the city of Igarapé-Miri (Panacuera and Pindobal Grande). The survey of serological markers for HBV (HBsAg, anti-HBs and anti-HBc), revealed the absence of HBsAg in both communities, while anti-HBc was positive in 3.84% of patients and in 12 Panacuera 5% at Pindobal Grande. The anti-HBs was positive in 3.4% and 6.25% Panacauera in Pindobal Grande. Given these results, we found that the prevalence rates of HBV infection in both communities were low compared to those found in other areas of the Amazon. However, these markers should be considered during the selection of donors within the community because of the risk of post-transfusion hepatitis. Prevention through vaccination should be done because individuals in these communities because they have risk factors, are predisposed to infection and may progress to cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.