Hepatitis C : Causes, sign and symptoms, diagnosis, Management, Prevention and control

• Written : Rchp. Rabiu Rabiu (Dr. Cracker)
• Medically Reviewed : Salisu abdullahi B.U.K Ph.D
• Editor : Victoria Solomon ( B.A English language )

• What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C, often abbreviated as HCV, is a viral infection caused by the hepatitis C virus. This virus specifically targets the liver, leading to inflammation and potential long-term damage. Unlike hepatitis A and B, which have vaccines available, hepatitis C lacks a vaccine, making it crucial to understand its transmission, symptoms, and treatment options.

• How Common is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a global health concern, with millions of people affected worldwide. As of September 2023, it is estimated that approximately 71 million people are living with hepatitis C. The prevalence varies by region, with some areas experiencing higher rates of infection due to factors such as healthcare practices, injection drug use, and blood transfusion history.

• What is the Main Cause of Hepatitis C?

The primary mode of transmission for hepatitis C is exposure to infected blood. This can occur through sharing needles during intravenous drug use, receiving contaminated blood transfusions or organ transplants, or through less common means such as sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes with an infected person.

• What is the Difference Between Hepatitis A, B, and C?

Hepatitis A, B, and C are all viral infections that affect the liver, but they are caused by different viruses and have distinct modes of transmission. Hepatitis A is primarily spread through contaminated food and water, while hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or other bodily fluids. Hepatitis C, as mentioned earlier, is mainly transmitted through direct blood-to-blood contact.

• How Does Hepatitis C Infection Affect Me?

The course of a hepatitis C infection can be divided into several stages: incubation, acute infection, and chronic infection.

• Incubation : The incubation period for hepatitis C varies but typically lasts around 2 weeks to 6 months after exposure. During this time, the virus multiplies within the body.
• Acute Infection : The acute phase of hepatitis C may be asymptomatic, meaning you might not experience noticeable symptoms. However, some individuals may have mild symptoms, including fatigue, fever, and jaundice.
• Chronic InfectionI : If the virus persists in your body beyond 6 months, it is considered a chronic infection. Chronic hepatitis C can lead to serious liver problems, including cirrhosis and liver cancer, over the years.

• How Do You Get Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. Common routes of transmission include sharing needles for drug use, receiving contaminated blood transfusions or organ transplants, and less commonly, through unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person.

• Who is Most Commonly Affected by Hepatitis C Infection?

While anyone can contract hepatitis C, certain populations are at a higher risk. This includes individuals who have a history of intravenous drug use, received blood transfusions or organ transplants before the implementation of rigorous screening, or have engaged in high-risk sexual behavior.

• What Are the Symptoms of Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C symptoms can vary in severity and may include:

• Fatigue
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abdominal pain
• Dark urine
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting

It's important to note that many people with hepatitis C may remain asymptomatic for years, making regular testing crucial for early detection.

• What Are the Early Warning Signs of Hepatitis C?

Early warning signs of hepatitis C may include:

• Flu-like symptoms
• Joint pain
• Mild fever
• Unexplained fatigue

These symptoms can be subtle, and individuals often dismiss them as minor illnesses.

• What Are the Symptoms of Advanced Liver Disease?

As hepatitis C progresses, it can lead to advanced liver disease, characterized by:

1. Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver)
2. Fluid retention and swelling
3. Easy bruising and bleeding
4. Confusion and cognitive impairment

How Is Hepatitis C Diagnosed?

Hepatitis C is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the presence of the virus in your bloodstream. These tests can confirm whether you have an active infection and determine the viral load.

• What Other Medical Tests Will I Have?

If you're diagnosed with hepatitis C, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests, including liver function tests and imaging studies like a liver ultrasound or elastography, to assess the extent of liver damage.

• Does Hepatitis C Go Away?

Acute hepatitis C can sometimes resolve on its own, but the majority of cases progress to chronic hepatitis C. The virus rarely clears from the body without treatment.

• What Is the Treatment for Hepatitis C?

Treatment for hepatitis C typically involves antiviral medications. The choice of medication and duration of treatment depend on various factors, including the specific strain of the virus and the extent of liver damage.

 Some commonly used medications include:

1. Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs)
2. Interferon-based therapies

The treatment plan will be personalized to your condition, and it's essential to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations closely.

• Will I Need Additional Treatment?

In some cases, individuals with advanced liver disease may require additional treatments such as liver transplantation. Your healthcare team will assess your condition and determine the most appropriate course of action.

• Is There a Hepatitis C Vaccine?

As of September 2023, there is no vaccine available to prevent hepatitis C. Prevention primarily focuses on avoiding risky behaviors that can lead to transmission, such as sharing needles and practicing safe sex.

• What Is the Prognosis for Someone with Chronic Hepatitis C?

The prognosis for individuals with chronic hepatitis C has improved significantly with the advent of effective antiviral treatments. Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent or slow the progression of liver damage, reducing the risk of complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.

• Conclusion

Hepatitis C is a serious viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for early detection and effective management. While there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, advancements in antiviral medications offer hope for those living with this condition. Regular testing and seeking medical care when needed are key steps in protecting your liver health.

References : 

1. World Health Organization. (2023). Hepatitis C – Fact Sheet. https://www.who.int/en/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-c
2. American Liver Foundation. (2023). Hepatitis C. https://liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/diseases-of-the-liver/hepatitis-c
3. Ghany, M. G., & Strader, D. B. (2023). Diagnosis and management of acute and chronic hepatitis C. Gastroenterology, 144(6), 1282-1293. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2013.03.020
4. AASLD-IDSA. (2023). Recommendations for Testing, Managing, and Treating Hepatitis C. https://www.hcvguidelines.org
5. World Hepatitis Alliance. (2023). Hepatitis C Treatment Access Report. https://www.worldhepatitisalliance.org/resources/hepatitis-c-treatment-access-report-2023
6. European Association for the Study of the Liver. (2023). EASL Recommendations on Treatment of Hepatitis C. https://easl.eu/policy-advocacy/easl-recommendations-on-treatment-of-hepatitis-c
7. HCV Advocate. (2023). Hepatitis C Treatment Information. https://www.hcvadvocate.org/hepatitis/factsheets_pdf/TreatmentGuide.pdf
8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Hepatitis C Questions and Answers for Health Professionals. https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/statistics/index.htm
9. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2023). Hepatitis C. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/hepatitis-c
10. Pawlotsky, J. M. (2023). New hepatitis C therapies: the toolbox, strategies, and challenges. Gastroenterology, 146(5), 1176-1192. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2014.03.003