Characteristics and Obstetric Outcomes in Pregnant Women with Acute Hepatitis E Virus Infection in Tertiary Care Hospital of Himachal Pradesh.

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) infection is a major concern regarding morbidity and mortality among pregnant women especially in developing countries. The objective of this study was to determine the characteristics and obstetric outcomes in pregnant women with Acute Hepatitis E Virus Infection in tertiary care hospital of Himachal Pradesh.

METHODS

Prospective observational study has been done in the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and department of Medicine and Emergency Medicine among all the pregnant women who were sero-positive for hepatitis E viral marker in two consecutive years. Information regarding basic characteristics of pregnant women and obstetric outcome has been collected.

RESULTS

Among 30 pregnant women with hepatitis E viral infection, a case fatality ratio of 8.0% for hepatitis E infection was found. 13.3% of the pregnancies ended up as intra uterine death. Most common age group affected was below 25 years. Mode of delivery among 70% of the women was normal vaginal delivery though 30% women delivered prematurely.

CONCLUSIONS

This prospective case series of 30 pregnant women with acute hepatitis E viral infection, indicate poor maternal, obstetric and foetal outcome among pregnant women with hepatitis E viral infection.