A Comparative Study of Hepatitis B and C Prevalence Using ICT and Elisa Method in jail inmates

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the diagnostic efficacy of serum anti- HCV & HBsAg by Rapid Immunochromatography test (ICT method) and by Enzyme linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Study design: The jail inmates were screened and investigated for the viral infections using commercially available diagnostic kits. Place of study: This case-control study was conducted during 2010, in 2550 male prisoners at Bahawalpur Jail, under Punjab Hepatitis B & C Control Program at BVH, Bahawalpur. Diagnostic Criteria: HBsAg positive and anti-HCV by ICT Method, HBsAg surface antigen and antiHCV reactivity by 3rd generation ELISA method. Methodology: The prisoners within the age range of 20-65 years were screened by the rapid ICT device (Accurate, UK) using manufacturers standard protocol and later on by ELISA. Statistical analysis of data was undertaken using SPSS-PC. Results: It was found that 305 were Positive for Anti- HCV and 96 Positive for HBsAg, by rapid ICT method. Follow up was done using 3rd generation ELISA technique. Patients were tested using ELISA & it was found that 139 patients (5.4%) reacted positively. HBsAg positive patients, it was found that only 63 (2.5%) reacted positively by ELISA method. Conclusion: ICT device screening method is giving false positive results & should be discontinued.