HCV

Definition

HCV, or Hepatitis C Virus, is a bloodborne virus that primarily affects the liver but can also impact digestive health. Transmission usually occurs through contact with infected blood.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. HCV is a leading cause of chronic liver disease and can lead to complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
2. The virus has multiple genotypes, with genotype 1 being the most common in the United States.
3. HCV can be asymptomatic for years, making early diagnosis challenging but crucial for prevention of severe liver damage.
4. Diagnosis of HCV infection typically involves serological assays to detect anti-HCV antibodies and nucleic acid tests (NAT) to identify viral RNA.
5. Treatment options for HCV have significantly improved with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), which have high cure rates.

Review Questions

• What are the primary modes of transmission for HCV?
• How is HCV diagnosed in clinical settings?
• Why are direct-acting antivirals significant in the treatment of HCV?

Related terms

Cirrhosis: A late-stage liver disease marked by fibrosis and impaired liver function.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A type of liver cancer commonly associated with chronic hepatitis infections.

Direct-Acting Antivirals (DAAs): Medications that target specific steps in the HCV life cycle to inhibit viral replication.