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CJPLS: VOL. 12, NO. 2, DECEMBER 2024 (Ongoing)

SEROLOGICAL EVIDENCE OF HBc IgM AMONG HIV-INFECTED INDIVIDUALS ATTENDING SELECTED HOSPITALS IN ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

Submitted
November 3, 2024
Published
2024-11-20

Abstract

The South-Eastern area of Nigeria does not currently have data on the serological evidence of anti-HBc-IgM antibodies. The study aimed to show the serological evidence of anti-HBc-IgM antibody biomarkers among HIV-infected individuals in selected hospitals in Anambra State, Nigeria. This study also investigates the prevalence of Hepatitis B core IgM (HBc IgM) among HIV-infected individuals in Anambra State, Nigeria, highlighting its sociodemographic correlates, CD4 counts, and viral load implications. Following the manufacturer's standard operating procedures, 372 participants were tested for anti-HBc IgM antibodies during a cross-sectional study. Of the 372 participants, 27.7% tested positive for HBc IgM. The overall prevalence of anti-HBc IgM antibodies (27.7%). The serological evidence of anti-HBc- IgM antibody was higher among females (32.1%), older age groups (33.8%), other marital categories (41.7%), monogamous family type (29.7%), primary educational level (41.5%), unemployed (38.5%), Christian religion (30.8%), and having HIV-positive spouse (31.7%). Among the immunological markers, a higher prevalence of anti-HBc IgM antibodies occurred in participants with CD4 counts <200 cells/µl (52.5%). For the virological markers, a higher prevalence of anti-HBc IgM antibodies occurred among participants with a plasma viral load of >1000 copies/ml (61.3%). This study identifies a possible danger of HBV transmission from HIV-infected individuals to the general population. Anti-HBc-IgM antibodies are prevalent in Anambra State, Nigeria and this represents the first evaluation of anti-HBc IgM in the South-Eastern region of the nation. The findings underscore the need for integrated healthcare approaches, emphasising comprehensive screening and tailored interventions to manage co-infections effectively.

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