Assessment of Methaemoglobin and Carboxyhaemoglobin Levels among Pregnant Women Infected with Hepatitis B Virus

Aims: The goal of this research is to determine plasma levels of MetHb and COHb in pregnant women with hepatitis B, which might enhance oxidative stress and hypoxemic condition of this state if it is not ameliorated on time.

Study Design: Prospective case-control study.

Place and Duration of Study: Antenatal clinic at Primary Health Centres, Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria between February, 2015 and August, 2015.

Methodology: Blood levels of MetHb, COHb and bilirubin were determined in ninety four (94) participants (aged 18-40 years), divided into three groups: 33 pregnant women infected with hepatitis B virus, 30 apparently healthy pregnant women and 31 age matched non pregnant women apparently healthy controls. Blood levels of MetHb, COHb and bilirubin were determined using standard spectrophotometric method.

Results: There was progressive increase and decrease in mean blood levels of (TBil, and MetHb) and mean blood levels of COHb respectively from controls through pregnant subjects with HBV. PCV and DBil had no specific pattern of differences across the groups.

Conclusion: This study showed a slight increase in blood levels of MetHb in pregnant women with hepatitis B and apparently healthy pregnant women compared to non-pregnant controls, which might enhance oxidative stress and hypoxemic condition of this state. It would also be helpful to incorporate MetHb screening as routine tests for better management of pregnant women especially with HBV.