Via practica 3-4/2026
Detection of hepatitis C cases in the Lučenec district during 2022 – 2025
Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyse the development of PCR-confirmed hepatitis C virus infection cases recorded at the Department of Infectious Diseases of the General Hospital with Polyclinic in Lučenec during the years 2022–2025 and to highlight the importance of screening activities and early diagnosis in high-risk population groups.
Materials and methods: Screening activities aimed at detecting hepatitis C virus infection were carried out in 2024–2025 in cooperation with community centres and the Healthy Regions organisation in localities with the presence of marginalised communities in the Lučenec district. Biological samples were collected by a healthcare professional using capillary blood obtained from a finger prick. Samples were tested for antibodies against the hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV). Individuals with positive anti-HCV results were subsequently referred for additional examination to confirm HCV infection using PCR methodology. Data on PCR-confirmed HCV infection cases during the years 2022–2025 were obtained from the Department of Infectious Diseases of the General Hospital with Polyclinic in Lučenec. All data were processed in anonymised and aggregated form.
Results: A total of 278 individuals participated in the screening activities. Anti-HCV positivity was detected in 12 individuals, representing 4.3% of the tested population. Analysis of data from the infectious diseases department indicated a gradual increase in the number of recorded PCR-confirmed HCV infection cases in the Lučenec district, with the highest number of cases recorded in 2025. The more pronounced increase in detected cases may have been associated with intensified community screening activities and improved access to diagnostic services in the monitored region.
Conclusion: The results highlight the importance of active case finding through screening programs and the need to increase awareness of hepatitis C infection among high-risk population groups. Community screening and early diagnosis may contribute to more effective detection of HCV infection and improved access to healthcare in marginalised communities.
Keywords: hepatitis C, anti-HCV, marginalized communities, epidemiology, public health
