The follow up of maternal - fetal transmission of hepatitis C virus

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1005-2224.2001.02.004

Abstract：Objective To investigate mother to child transmission ofhepatitis C virus (HCV) and the influence of HCV infection on the physical development of newborns. Methods Blood HCV antibodies were detected by ELISA in 1023 pregnant women. HCV RNA was detected in both HCV infected mothers and infants, and infants have been followed up for 10 to 12 months,during which the feeding,disease suffered and physical growth were observed. Results The incidence of HCV infection was 2.74% (28/1023) in pregnant women. HCV RNA was positive in 75% (21/28) of mothers infected by HCV. HCV was positive in 46.43% of newborns,of which 5 were HCV RNA positive. Infants with HCV antibodies were followed up for one year,69.23% (9/13) of anti - HCV changed to negative. The body weight and height in anti - HCV positive group were significantly lower than those in control group. Conclusion Mother to child transmission of HCV exists during pregnancy. HCV RNA not only increases the risk of maternal - fetal transmission, but also delays the excretion of HCV antibodies. HCV infection greatly retards the physical growth of newborns.