Problems of Interpreting Serological Markers of Viral Hepatitis B at the Mali Hospital from January to May 2023

Introduction: Viral hepatitis is a systemic infection of viral origin preferentially affecting the liver and causing inflammatory lesions and hepatocyte alterations that can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver cancer. Objective: To assess the knowledge levels of healthcare staff on the interpretation of serological markers of viral hepatitis B at the Mali hospital. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with a descriptive aim and collected 53 healthcare staff (Physicians and Biologists) from the Mali hospital including 47 doctors and 6 biologists, from January to May 2023. Consenting healthcare staff were included. A questionnaire was administered to collect information. Results: The study population represented 69.7% (53/76) of the hospital's healthcare staff. Males represented 81.1%. More than 50% of healthcare staff did not consider serological markers before proposing vaccination and 32.1% confused a cured person with a vaccinated person. Conclusion: This study generally shows an insufficient level of staff knowledge on the interpretation of serological markers of viral hepatitis B. This can lead to harmful practices in patient care. Continuous training of staff is necessary to promote good preventive, diagnostic and curative practices.