HEPATITIS C

Description

Once known as non-A, non-B hepatitis, hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The onset is usually insidious with anorexia, vague abdominal discomfort, nausea and vomiting. Jaundice is less frequent then with hepatitis B. More than 90% of cases may be asymptomatic or mild. Between 50-80% will develop a chronic infection. Of these, about half will eventually develop cirrhosis or cancer of the liver. Chronic infection may persist for up to 20 years before the onset of cirrhosis or hepatoma.

Where are they found?

Humans.

How do we get infections?

HCV is primarily transmitted by blood. Sexual transmission has been documented but is much less efficient or frequent than via the parenteral route.

Incubation period

Ranges from 2 weeks to 6 months, usually 6-9 weeks.

Treatment

Available data suggests that post exposure prophylaxis with IG is NOT effective. Interferon alpha therapy has been shown to have an overall effect with about 25% of chronic hepatitis C patients. Corticosteroids and acyclovir have NOT been effective.

Prevention

General control measures for HBV apply, and Universal Precautions observed. All blood bank donors must be screened for anti-HCV and units of blood found to have elevated liver enzyme levels should be discarded.