Assessment of Risk Factors for Hepatitis C in Dialysis Patients: A Systematic Review
Volume 1, Issue 9, September 2025, Pages 283-288
https://doi.org/10.22034/mphrj.2025.537441.1038
Abolfazl Pourhassan, Sara Pourhassan Marzrood
Abstract Introduction: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection remains a major concern among dialysis patients due to the high risk of nosocomial transmission. Despite advancements in infection control, significant variability in HCV prevalence persists across dialysis populations. Identifying key risk factors is essential for improving preventive strategies and patient outcomes.
Materials and Methods: This systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase to identify studies assessing HCV risk factors in dialysis patients. Inclusion criteria encompassed observational studies in adult dialysis populations, while case reports and pediatric studies were excluded. Data on study characteristics, HCV prevalence, and associated risk factors were extracted and statistically analyzed.
Results: HCV prevalence among dialysis patients ranged from 9.38% to 15.04%. Key risk factors included prolonged dialysis duration (>5 years, OR: 3.45), history of blood transfusions (OR: 2.87), reuse of dialysis filters (OR: 2.42), inadequate infection control (OR: 4.12), and hemodialysis modality (OR: 1.89). Geographic variability in prevalence was also observed.
Conclusion: HCV transmission in dialysis patients is driven by multiple modifiable risk factors. Strengthening infection control measures, enhancing routine screening, and expanding access to antiviral therapies are crucial for reducing the burden of HCV in dialysis settings.