Trends of acute hepatitis B hospitalizations, comorbidities, fatality rate, and costs associated with the hospitalization in Spain (2001-2006).

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study is to analyze data related to hospitalization, comorbidities, fatality rate, average stays, and costs associated with hospitalized cases of acute hepatitis B in Spain, during 2001-2006.

METHODS

A retrospective study to analyze the characteristics of acute hepatitis B patients admitted to Spanish hospitals was performed using the minimum basic data set. Costs were calculated using the diagnosis-related groups for the disease.

RESULTS

The total number of hospitalized patients diagnosed with acute hepatitis B was 2160, of which 73.8% were diagnosed in men. The highest rate corresponds to the group aged 20-39 years (2.33/100 000 inhabitants). Ninety deaths (4.2%) were reported out of the total hospitalized patients. The average hospital stay was 10 days. The trends in the rate of hospitalized acute hepatitis B cases were not statistically significant. There were no differences found in the average length of stay or in the cost during the study period. The estimated total cost was 7 451 098 euros.

CONCLUSION

The rate of hospitalized acute hepatitis B patients in Spain did not change during the 2001-2006 period. Having an adequate surveillance system and continuing with the universal immunization and risk group programs, and health education, remain a high priority.