Evaluation of Hepatitis B, C and HIV Seroprevalence in Lymphoma Patients

Objective: Hepatitis B and C viruses (HBV, HCV), as well as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), are capable of replicating in lymphoid tissues. These infections can lead to chronic antigenic stimulation, which may be linked to the development of lymphoproliferative disorders. This study aims to explore the serological status of Hepatitis B, C, and HIV in lymphoma patients. Methods: In this study, medical records of lymphoma patients diagnosed between 2022 and 2024 were reviewed to record parameters such as HBsAg, Anti-HBs, Anti-HBc IgG, Anti-HCV, Anti-HIV. Results: The average age of the 59 patients was 60.6 ± 15.3 years, and 37.3% were women. Of the 59 patients, 41(69.5%) were treated with chemotherapy including Rituximab (rtx). Among the patients, 6 (10.1%) were HBsAg positive, 22 (37.2%) were HBsAg negative with Anti-HBc (+) detected. Of the 28 patients with HBsAg (+) and/or Anti-HBc IgG (+), 24 had received rtx treatment, and antiviral therapy was administered to 20 of them. One of these patients experienced HBV reactivation during follow-up. A false positive result for Anti-HCV was observed in one patient (1.7%). HIV positivity was detected in 3 patients (5%). Conclusıon: These findings indicate that the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and HIV in lymphoma patients in our center is higher than in the general population. Therefore, HBV and HIV tests should be performed before initiating treatment in lymphoma patients. These patients should be evaluated for the risk of HBV reactivation, and appropriate prophylaxis should be planned.