Prevalence of Human T-cell Leukemia Virus Antibodies among Young Females Attending a Large Medical Diagnostic Laboratory in Neyshabour, Northeast of Iran, During 2011 to 2015

Abstract

Background: Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus (HTLV) infection is endemic in Neyshabour, and even higher than other cities. Objectives:: The aim of this investigation was to determine the prevalence of HTLV antibodies among young females attending a large medical diagnostic laboratory in Neyshabour, during 2011 to 2015. Methods: The researchers established this study by data, which were collected from the surveillance system. Based on HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 ELISA kit instruction, 5724 females were evaluated. Variables were age, year, and season. Data were analyzed by the SPSS software. Results: According to the Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) results, 117 (2.04 %) young females indicated evidence of antibodies to HTLV-1 and HTL -2. Most infected young females were aged 38 to 39 years (4.16%) and according to annual prevalence, the highest rates were found in 2012. Also, most infected young females had referred in October (3.16%). Conclusions: The data obtained suggests that Neyshabour is a high endemic city of HTLV infected young females. Making them aware seems to be vital in avoiding transfer of HTLV infection, especially to the next generation. However, further investigations like population-based studies are required to confirm these results