HCV

HCV or Hepatitis C Virus is a type of virus that causes hepatitis C in humans. It is a major cause of both acute and chronic hepatitis. The virus is spread primarily by blood-to-blood contact associated with intravenous drug use, poorly sterilized medical equipment, and transfusions.

Overview

HCV is a small, enveloped, positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus of the family Flaviviridae. The virus was first identified in 1989 and is one of six known hepatitis viruses: A, B, C, D, E, and G. The lifecycle of HCV is still not completely understood, mainly because its replication has been difficult to study due to the lack of a robust and convenient cell culture system.

Transmission

HCV is spread primarily by blood-to-blood contact. This can occur through sharing drug-injecting equipment, needlestick injuries in healthcare settings, childbirth, and less commonly through sexual contact. The virus can also be transmitted through tattooing and body piercing with non-sterile instruments.

Symptoms and Complications

Many people infected with HCV are asymptomatic and are unaware of their infection. However, chronic infection can lead to scarring of the liver and ultimately to cirrhosis, which is generally apparent after many years. In some cases, those with cirrhosis will go on to develop liver failure or other complications of cirrhosis, including liver cancer.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is made by blood tests that detect antibodies to the virus or its RNA. Treatment for HCV involves antiviral medications intended to clear the virus from the body. The goal of treatment is to have no virus detected in the body at least 12 weeks after the end of treatment.

Prevention

Prevention includes harm reduction efforts among people who inject drugs, testing donated blood, and treatment of those infected.

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