Post Transfusion Hepatitis is caused by which virus?

UP CHO - 2018

Applied Microbiology & Infection control

Easy

Appeared in: UP CHO - 2018

Explanation

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) was historically the leading cause of hepatitis transmitted through blood transfusions.
Before its specific identification in 1989, it was referred to as “non-A, non-B hepatitis,” highlighting its association with transfusions when other known viruses were ruled out.
HCV is primarily transmitted via the percutaneous route (through the skin), with blood transfusions being a major historical risk factor.
Although modern blood screening has made post-transfusion HCV infection rare, it remains the classic and defining cause of this condition.

Option A: Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is transmitted primarily through the fecal-oral route, typically from consuming contaminated food or water.
Option B: While Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is also blood-borne and can be transmitted via transfusion, HCV was historically far more common in this context. Effective screening and vaccination for HBV have made it a less frequent cause of post-transfusion hepatitis.
Option D: Hepatitis D virus (HDV), or the delta agent, is an incomplete virus. It can only cause infection in individuals who are already infected with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Etiology of Post-Transfusion Hepatitis as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This knowledge underscores the critical importance of stringent blood donor screening protocols, including Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT), to prevent the transmission of blood-borne pathogens.
When taking a patient's medical history, nurses should recognize that a history of blood transfusion, especially before 1992 (when widespread HCV screening began), is a significant risk factor for chronic liver disease.
Patient education for individuals diagnosed with HCV should include counseling on preventing further liver damage (e.g., avoiding alcohol) and preventing transmission to others.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the question: "Post Transfusion Hepatitis."
Recall the different types of hepatitis viruses and their primary modes of transmission.
Eliminate Hepatitis A and E, as they are primarily transmitted via the fecal-oral route (contaminated food/water), not blood.
Consider the remaining blood-borne viruses: Hepatitis B, C, and D.
Remember that Hepatitis D requires a co-infection with Hepatitis B, making it a secondary cause.
Differentiate between Hepatitis B and C. Recall that Hepatitis C was historically termed "non-A, non-B hepatitis" and was the most common cause of hepatitis following blood transfusions before effective screening was developed. This makes it the most specific and correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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