## Hepatitis C: A Comprehensive Guide
### Introduction
Hepatitis C (HCV) is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus. It affects millions of people worldwide and is a major cause of chronic liver disease and liver cancer.
**Symptoms:**
Hepatitis C infection often progresses slowly, with many individuals not experiencing symptoms in the early stages. In chronic cases, symptoms may include:
* Fatigue
* Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
* Dark urine
* Light stools
* Nausea and vomiting
* Abdominal pain
* Joint pain
* Fever
### Diagnosis
Diagnosis of hepatitis C typically involves:
* **Liver function tests:** Blood tests that check for liver damage.
* **Viral load testing:** Measures the amount of virus in the blood.
* **Liver biopsy:** A small tissue sample from the liver is examined to assess the severity of liver disease.
* **Elastography:** A non-invasive imaging technique that estimates the stiffness of the liver.
### Prevention
Hepatitis C can be prevented through:
* Vaccination (approved in the US for people at high risk)
* Practicing safe sex and using condoms
* Avoiding sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia
* Getting screened if you have risk factors, such as a history of blood transfusions or exposure to contaminated blood
### Treatment
The primary treatment for hepatitis C is **direct-acting antivirals (DAAs)**, which are highly effective in clearing the virus from the body. Other medications that may be used include:
* Ribavirin
* Interferon
* Ledipasvir
* Sofosbuvir
**Body Parts Involved**
* **Liver:** The liver is the primary organ affected by hepatitis C and is responsible for filtering blood, producing bile, and storing vitamins and minerals.
* **Hepatocytes:** Liver cells that are infected and damaged by the hepatitis C virus.
* **Bile ducts:** Tubes that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine.
### Complications of Hepatitis C
Chronic hepatitis C infection can lead to several complications, including:
* **Cirrhosis:** Irreversible scarring of the liver.
* **Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC):** A type of liver cancer.
* **Liver failure:** Loss of liver function that can be life-threatening.
* **Ascites:** Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen.
* **Encephalopathy:** A brain disorder caused by liver failure.
### Prognosis
The prognosis of hepatitis C depends on several factors, including the severity of the infection, the duration of the infection, and the success of treatment. Early detection and treatment are essential for a better outcome.
### Related Terms
* **Bloodborne pathogen:** A pathogen that is spread through infected blood.
* **Chronic liver disease:** Liver damage that lasts for more than six months.
* **Co-infection (HIV, HBV):** Concurrent infection with hepatitis C and other bloodborne pathogens, such as HIV or hepatitis B virus (HBV).
* **Genotype:** A genetic variant of the hepatitis C virus.
* **Seroconversion:** The development of antibodies against the hepatitis C virus, indicating an active infection.
* **Sustained virologic response (SVR):** The absence of detectable hepatitis C virus in the blood for at least 24 weeks after completion of treatment.
### World Hepatitis Day
World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28th to raise awareness about hepatitis infections, advocate for prevention, testing, and treatment, and encourage action towards elimination.
