Pathophysiology and Treatment of Hepatitis C Infection

The pathophysiology and treatment of hepatitis C infection, formerly known as non-A, non-B hepatitis, are discussed. The worldwide prevalence is approximately 1%. The majority of patients infected with hepatitis C virus will develop chronic infection, leading to cirrhosis in a significant percentage. Transmission of hepatitis C is primarily through parenteral routes. Those who use intravenous drugs or received blood transfusions prior to 1992 comprise the major risk groups for the infection. The progression of chronic hepatitis C infection is insidious with possible progression to an inflammatory hepatitis developing within 5–10 years, cirrhosis in 10–20 years, and hepatocellular carcinoma in 20–30 years. Combination therapy with interferon alpha-2b and ribavirin is currently the treatment of choice. Therapy for hepatitis C continues to evolve with newer forms of interferon and HCV antivirals under development.