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Viral hepatitis in haemophilia: historical perspective and current management
Author(s) -
Isfordink Cas J.,
Erpecum Karel J.,
Valk Marc,
MauserBunschoten Evelien P.,
Makris Michael
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
british journal of haematology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.907
H-Index - 186
eISSN - 1365-2141
pISSN - 0007-1048
DOI - 10.1111/bjh.17438
Subject(s) - haemophilia , clotting factor , medicine , blood clotting , immunology , viral hepatitis , transmission (telecommunications) , virology , hepatitis c virus , vaccination , viral disease , hepatitis c , natural history , hepatitis , human immunodeficiency virus (hiv) , virus , pediatrics , electrical engineering , engineering
Summary The introduction of clotting factor concentrates has substantially improved the lives of people with clotting factor deficiencies. Unfortunately, the transmission of blood‐borne viral infections through these plasma‐derived products led to a huge epidemic of human immunodeficiency virus and viral hepatitis in people with haemophilia (PWH). In a significant proportion of PWH exposed to these viruses, the ensuing decades‐long chronic infection resulted in excess morbidity and mortality. Fortunately, developments in the safety of blood products, as well as vaccination and highly effective antiviral treatments have improved the prospects of PWH. The present article reviews the background of the viral hepatitis epidemic in PWH, the natural history of hepatitis B and C infections and their long‐term management.