Chronic hemodialysis patients were prospectively followed at monthly intervals with hepatitis B serologic (HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc) and aminotransferase determinations. Over this 1 year, 53/176 (30) had two or more abnormal aminotransferase values. In at least 34 of these 53 patients, viral liver disease appeared to be the responsible factor. Although patients with anti-HBc were more likely to have abnormal aminotransferases, it is probable that most viral hepatitis in dialysis units is due to non-A, non-B hepatitis. After a further 2½ years of follow-up, no clinical evidence of hepatic failure was seen in any of the patients with hepatitis. The ultimate course of this disease, however, is not yet established
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