Abstract: Background: Hemophilia is a x-linked deficiency of factor VIII. The aim of the present study was to determine the frequencies of hepatitis B and C infections, markers of inflammation and liver function tests and also to assess the possible association between factor VIII inhibitor and hepatitis B and C infections in hemophiliacs of Hamedan Province of Iran. Materials and methods: Sixty-six patients with confirmed diagnosis of hemophilia were included, for whom, hepatitis B and C serology, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), factor VIII level and factor VIII inhibitor were evaluated. Results: Frequencies of hepatitis C antibody and hepatitis B surface antigen were 59.1% and 5%, respectively. Frequency of factor VIII inhibitor was 47.8% in hemophilia A group, and its presence was not neither associated significantly with hepatitis B or C infections nor with AST or ALT levels. There was a significant statistical association between duration of hemophilia and development of factor VIII inhibitor (P<0.03) and hepatitis C (p<0.01). Conclusions: Frequencies of hepatitis C and B are significant in hemophiliacs. Indeed, current screening of blood products might not be complete for elimination of blood-borne viruses and we strictly suggest revising this process in transfusion centers.

Keywords: Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, Hemophilia, Factor VIII inhibitor.

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