HCV as a possible cause of persistent symptoms after cholecystectomy

Abstract

The present study was carried out to assess the role of HCV infection as a possible cause of persistence of symptoms after cholecystectomy.

The postcholecystectomy syndrome Is a multiple varried symptoms arising from diverse causes. Some of these are entirely unrelated to the operation and are concomitant or complication of the original disease.

The incidence of postcholecystectomy syndrome is variable, it ranges from 20% to 47% of cases undergoing cholecystectomy for 2 years follow up.

The symptoms ofHCV infection are similar to some symptoms that can be attributed to gallbladder disease. The overall prevalence of anti-HCV antibodies among Egyptian population ranges from 28-37% by ELISA technique.

This study included 31 patients from whom complete history taking, clinical examination and ultrasonographic examination. Blood samples were obtained from all patients and tested for complete blood