Seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C virus in two institutions caring for mentally handicapped adults.

Hepatitis B virus infection is common in institutions caring for the mentally handicapped. Hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus share routes of transmission but the prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection in this population is unknown. We have tested 101 patients from two institutions in South-East England caring for adults with mental handicap for the presence of hepatitis C antibody, hepatitis B core antibody, and if necessary hepatitis B surface antigen.

Streptococcal necrotising fasciitis.

Three cases of streptococcal necrotising fasciitis are described. Its relative rarity and the lack of superficial inflammation leading to diagnostic difficulty is emphasised. The diagnosis is readily confirmed microbiologically but the clinician should bear in mind that antibiotics may not be curative and that surgery is often required.