[Risk of infectious hepatitis and risk of anesthetic gases in operating rooms: considerations on 3 cases of chronic hepatic pathology].

Three subject with professional activity in operating theatre and with a diagnosis of chronic viral "C" hepatitis are considered. All cases (Two surgeons and an anesthetist) had been continuously exposed to low level of airborne anesthetic compounds (Nitrous oxide and halogenated compounds). According to possible, but not proved, synergic effects, two cases with a clinical picture of active chronic hepatitis were classified as unqualified to specific work. The third case, affected by a persistent chronic hepatitis, was admitted to operating activities only for four hours a week, i.e. only an operating session a week. Hepatitis B and C markers must be always monitored during the medical surveillance in exposed people of operating theatre.