الفهرس 
INTRODUCTION AND AIM OF WORKOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
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Abstract
The aim of this work is to study the etiological association of HCV infection with chronic liver disease, the association between hepatitis C viraemia and hepatitis C virus antibody, the association of hepatitis B profile in relation to hepatitis C and finally, the association of shistosomiasis with HCV infection.
From this study we conclude that HCV infection has a high seroprevalent rate in Egypt and among patients with chronic liver disease. Also, chronic dual infection of C & B is not uncommon but coexistence of HBs Ag and HCV infection is not common. Third generation ELISA test is sensitive and can be used for mass screening while third generation RIBA is a confirmatory test and PCR is the most specific test for diagnosis of HCV infection. Males are subjected to infection more than females. Past history of bilharziasis, operations, dental procedures and diabetes mellitus are considered risk for both HCV and HBV infection. However, past history of operations and blood transfusion are considered the most important risk factors by multiple regression analysis. Also, dual infection of C & B causes more severe progressive liver damage cirrhosis and HCC also, causes impairment of liver functions and increases incidence of varices more than HCV only. Bilharziasis enhances entrances and replication of hepatitis C and B which in turn, induces progressive liver disease, portal hypertension, splenomegaly, varices and impairment of liver functions.