Hepatitis C Virus
What is it?
Hepatitis C is a virus that is transmitted
through blood.
Who gets it?
Anyone is at risk to contract Hepatitis C.
Individuals at high risk are those requiring blood
transfusions especially before 1990, environmental
or occupational exposure to blood, IV drug abuse,
and sexual promiscuity.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may include jaundice, fatigue, loss of
appetite, and nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may be
acute or chronic and lead to cirrhosis of the
liver (25% of cases). The leading indication for
Liver Transplant in the US is from chronic
Hepatitis C infection. Hepatitis C infection also
places individuals at risk to develop
Hepatocellular Carcinoma.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by history and physical,
liver biopsy and serological testing for Hepatitis
C presence as well as liver enzyme studies.
Treatment
Individuals with acute infection may require
rest and avoid alcohol consumption. Individuals
with chronic illness should be evaluated by a
Gastroenterologist for treatment with anti viral
medications such as Alpha-interferon. Referral to
a Transplant Center should be instituted if
patients are deemed "non responders" to
treatment, where eventual listing for liver
transplant can occur.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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