Prevalence of GBV-C/hepatitis G virus viremia and anti-E2 in Canadian blood donors

Background and Objectives: GB virus C (GBV-C)/hepatitis G virus (HGV) is a recently recognized parenterally and sexually transmitted agent. The preval ence of GBV-C/HGV markers in Canadian blood donors has not been previously studied and was therefore determined. Materials and Methods: Blood donors [ identity unlinked (IU), short-term temporarily deferred (STTD) and autologo us groups] and donor samples with antibodies to hepatitis C (anti-HCV) or h epatitis B core were tested for GBV-C/HGV RNA and for antibodies to E2 anti gen (anti-E2). Results: GBV-C/HGV RNA was found in 1.1% and anti-E2 in 7.3% of the combined IU/STTD donor group. Viremia was much more common in anti- HCV-positive samples (12.5%); anti-E2 was present in > 50% of this group. I n the STTD group, female gender was significantly associated with viremia. Conclusion: GBV-C/HGV infection is relatively common in Canadian donors, an d a small proportion are viremic, The association of female gender and vire mia was unexpected. Further study is needed to clarify the epidemiology and natural history of GBV-C/HGV infection. Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karger AG, B asel.