Hepatitis C: a review.

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus is an RNA virus in the Flavivirus family that was identified in 1989. Since then, blood donor screening has reduced the incidence of acute infections; however, because this virus frequently leads to asymptomatic chronic infection, the prevalence of infection remains high. Chronic infection leads to increased risks of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as extrahepatic manifestations. Guidelines for widespread screening continue to evolve, and early diagnosis is likely to become more important with the development of more effective treatments. Current recommendations regarding screening are reviewed.