Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in patients undergoing tonsillectomy.

METHODS: Between January 2012 and December 2018, a total of 751 patients (389 males, 362 females; mean age 27 years; range, 12 to 58 years) who underwent bilateral tonsillectomy under general anesthesia in our clinic were retrospectively analyzed. The seropositivity of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HCV, and anti-HIV was investigated in all patients.

RESULTS: Positive serology for HBsAg was detected in 12 patients (1.5%) including eight males (1%) and four females (0.5%). Two male patients (0.2%) and two male patients (0.2%) had anti-HCV positivity and anti-HIV positivity, respectively. According to the age groups (≤18 vs. >18 years), all serology-positive patients were >18 years of age.

CONCLUSION: Testing of the HBV, HCV, and HIV serology is necessary for tonsillectomy patients preoperatively, particularly those who are older than 18 years and males. All otolaryngologists should be aware of transmission via occupational exposure and must take necessary precautions to protect themselves against contamination by wearing a mask or goggles, particularly while performing such operations.