Identification of patients with HBV and HCV infection in the primary care setting: Pre-defined risk scenarios are a better screening strategy than elevated ALT values

Aims: Elevated ALT values are used as trigger to screen for hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) virus infection. However, both infections can present with ALT values within normal limits. Treatment guidelines additionally define scenarios with increased risk for both diseases. We evaluated the relevance of guideline defined risk scenarios in clinical practice. Methods: An HBsAg and anti-HCV (Architect, Abbott) screening was implemented in a routine check-up performed by primary care physicians. A questionnaire covering 15 risk scenarios defined by the German hepatitis C guidelines was distributed to all pati…