The interpretation of minor histological abnor- malities in this context is a challenge.None is patho- gnomonic of hepatitis C, but lymphoid aggregates (common in chronic hepatitis C5) were observed in a single biopsy specimen (activity index 5).Our patients would not have undergone biopsy outside the context of this study, and the prevalence of minor histological abnormalities in a comparable unselected population is not known.In conclusion, British blood donors with normal liver function and an indeterminate result on second generation recombinant immunoblot assay should be reassured that covert liver disease is most unlikely.Further investigation, including liver biopsy, is not indicated.Normal transaminase activities were a feature of our cohort.Viraemia and liver disease may be more likely whern liver function tests give abnormal results.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Hay et al. (1994) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 3 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: