Seroprevalence and molecular detection of human t-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 among multi –transfused patients in Sana’a City, Yemen
摘要
The prevalence of Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1) represents a major public health challenge, threatening the safety of blood transfusions for patients globally, particularly in Yemen due to the lack of routine pre-transfusion screening for this type of virus. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of HTLV-1 among multi-transfused patients (MTPs) in Sana’a city.
MethodsAn analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among MTPs at medical treatment centers in Sana’a city. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a questionnaire that included sociodemographic information and predisposing factors of infection. A quantitative ELISA kit was used to detect HTLV-1 antigen in serum/plasma samples and a positive ELISA test was confirmed using real-time PCR. All patients were also screened for HIV, HBsAg and HCV. Bivariate and multivariate analysis were performed to identify associated factors.
ResultsA total of 361 MTPs were enrolled. Of them, male 51.8% and aged less than 20 years 73.7%. Seroprevalence was higher in males, married individuals, and the 20–29 age group. Out of 361 samples, 12 (3.3) were initially reactive to HTLV1/2 antigen. The PCR results confirmed 10 samples (2.8%) were positive for HTLV-1. Only one patient had co-infection of HTLV-1 with HBsAg. Patients who have a low income (AOR:12.23;95%CI: 1.37-109.37), a medical history of blood transfusion of more than 30 units (AOR: 8.14; 95%CI:1.48–44.95), acupuncture (AOR:6.66;95%CI: 1.25–35.56), and dental clinic visits (OR = 5.84;95%CI:1.01–33.74) were significantly associated with HTLV-1.
ConclusionsAlthough the prevalence rate of HTLV-1 was not high in Sana’a city, it remains an important problem among MTPs. Therefore, HTLV-1 screening should be mandatory in blood centers, and community awareness of risk factors must be increased.