Impact of Hepatitis C Virus Co-Infection on Iron Metabolism Biomarkers in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

 Background: approximately 71.1 million people universal is affected with Hepatitis C virus (HCV) which consider a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and lead to alteration in iron metabolism, which degrades renal anemia treatment.

Objective: This study aimed to compare: serum iron levels, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC) between chronic kidney disease patients  with or without co-infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV).

Methods: 200 patients with chronic renal disease (100 with hepatitis C virus and 100 without) was included in this cross-sectional study and Serum iron levels, total blood count (TIBC), and total blood count (UIBC) were determined for all participant  in the study.

Results: The result showed high significant differences in TIBC between the HCV-positive group when compared to the HCV-negative group. But no differences were found in serum iron or UIBC levels between the groups. The result showed significant negative correlations between iron and TIBC/UIBC in the HCV-negative group, whereas these correlations were substantially lower or nonexistent in the HCV-positive group, indicating an iron imbalance.

Conclusion: Co-infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with higher TIBC and altered iron-mediated interactions, indicating poor iron metabolism. These data show the intricate interplay between HCV and iron control in CKD patients. This emphasizes the significance of a thorough clinical evaluation while treating anemia in people with both diseases.