Patient's question:
Why is there no longer a requirement to check hepatitis B and C antibodies before an endoscopy? Could there be iatrogenic transmission?Doctor's answer:
First, let me explain the relationship between antigens and antibodies: If a person is infected with the hepatitis E and C viruses, there will definitely be antigens in their body. In a normally immunized human body, antibodies are produced against these antigens. People who have been vaccinated will also have these antibodies, which help resist viral invasion. Therefore, if you don’t check the antibodies, you won’t know whether you have the ability to be naturally immune to these viruses. If there are no antibodies in your body, the risk of infection will increase.As for endoscopy instruments, they are rigorously sterilized and disinfected, so there is generally no risk of infection in normal circumstances. If you have been vaccinated, you don’t need to worry. If you haven’t been vaccinated, you can get vaccinated.