Abstract
To assess the persistence of hepatitis G virus (HGV) infection and its association with liver disease, HGV RNA was assessed in the most recent serum sample for 246 long-term injecting drug users (IDUs) and in prior specimens for those found HGV RNA-positive. HGV RNA was detected at the most recent visit in 38 (15.4%). For 31 (82%), HGV RNA was also found at all prior visits occurring a median of 6.1 years earlier. HGV-positive IDUs were younger and had fewer years of drug use, suggesting that HGV RNA had previously been cleared. Serial samples from 29 short-term IDUs were then assessed. HGV RNA was detected in 9 (31%) of 29 short-term IDUs, and 5 (56%) of the 9 HGV infections cleared. No differences were detected in serum levels of liver- related enzymes among HGV RNA-positive and -negative participants (P > .20). HGV infection is not associated with hepatic inflammation. HGV clearance occurs after many acute infections but uncommonly in persons who remain RNA- positive years after exposure.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 586-592 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Journal of Infectious Diseases |
Volume | 176 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1997 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Immunology and Allergy
- Infectious Diseases