The pattern of acute viral hepatitis in children--a study based on seroepidemiology and biochemical profile.

The study of pattern of acute viral hepatitis (AVH) in children revealed that hepatitis A was most common in children (59.3%) followed by NANB hepatitis (29.7 %). A dual infection with hepatitis A and hepatitis B was present in 4.4% of cases. Hepatitis A was more commonly diagnosed in younger children (54.9%) while the frequency of NANB hepatitis increased with the advancing age. Liver function tests in children were more disturbed in hepatitis A and NANB hepatitis as compared to hepatitis B. A seasonal variation (late summer and winter) was noticed in the occurrence of hepatitis A. Poor hygienic conditions, improper sanitation, overcrowding and the use of inadequately sterilized syringes are important factors in the transmission of all types of acute viral hepatitis in children (JPMA37: 314,1987).