ABSTRACT

Aim: To investigate the etiology of jaundice in pregnancy.

Study design: Cross-sectional, observational study.

Place and duration of study: Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Sheikh Zayed Women Hospital Larkana from 1st January 2017 to 31st January 2018.

Methodology: Forty patients were recruited. After taken consent form, a proper clinical history, demographic, physical examinations, complications and neonatal outcomes were collected through questionnaire. Etiological investigation of jaundice had been through viral biomarker by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Liver enzymes like serum bilirubin, SGT, SGPT, alkaline phosphatase was done by laboratory examination.

Results: 53% having age group of 20-30 years (27.6±0.7) belonging to poor socioeconomic status. The statistical outcome indicates that hepatitis E virus is the major etiology of jaundice in pregnant woman 67%. The mean level of serum bilirubin was 9.71±2.8. It was observed that anemia, edema, vomiting, irritation and weakness were more common sign and symptoms in pregnant women.

Conclusion: Acute hepatitis E virus infection was the main causative factor.

Keywords: Jaundice, Etiology, Acute hepatitis infection, Hepatitis E virus