PREVALENCE OF HEPATITIS B SURFACE ANTIGEN AND AIDS ANTIDODIES IN EGYPTIAN PREGNANT WOMEN

Abstract

Mother-to-infant transmission is well documented for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This mode of transmission has a key role in the survival of HBV over many generation. With safe and effective vaccines available, it is now possible to prevent hepatitis B infections.

In order to prevent vertical transmission (mother to infant) of HIV, wide spread health education campaigns should address the risk of infection, especially to women of child-bearing age.

so, this work was designed to study the seroprevalence of both HBV infection and AIDS among Egyptian pregnant women and their babies. Also, to vaccinate infants of HBsAg carrier mothers to prevent perinatal transmission of HBV infection. The material of this study included 950 Egyptian pregnant women. Their average age was 26.5 years, range from 17 to 46 years.

They were subjected to the following:

1- Thorough clinical history and examination for hepatitis.

2- Liver function tests (S. bilirubib, AST & ALT).