Study of profile of acute viral hepatitis in hospitalized children at a tertiary care center in Gujarat

Abstract

Background: Viral hepatitis is a significant public health problem throughout the world affecting millions of children. Aims and Objectives: The objective of the study was to determine the profile of acute viral hepatitis (AVH) in pediatric patients admitted in a tertiary care hospital in Gujarat. Materials and Methods: This prospective and hospital-based study was done in a tertiary care hospital in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India from August 2019 to July 2021. Children up to 14 years of age with AVH who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Results: Mean age of presentation was 8.08 years. Males were more affected than females with male: Female ratio of 2:1. Majority of patients had a history of eating unhygienic food and drinking unsafe water. About 88% were vaccinated for hepatitis B. None of them was vaccinated for hepatitis A. The most common symptoms at presentation were fever (94%), abdominal pain (78%), vomiting (76%), dark colored urine (76%), yellow eyes (73%) and decreased appetite (61%). The most common clinical sign noted was jaundice followed by hepatomegaly. Hepatitis A was the most common etiological agent (86%) followed by hepatitis E (8%). Mixed infection with hepatitis A and E was also seen (4%). There was no mortality. Conclusion: It is very important to create awareness regarding preventive measures such as hygienic food practices, improved sanitation, and increased rates of vaccination for the prevention of viral hepatitis.