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Hepatitis C

A viral infection transmitted by blood that often follows a silent chronic course and can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral liver disease caused by Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmitted through blood — most often via intravenous drug use and unsafe injection practices. Sexual transmission and mother-to-child transmission are possible but less common.

Acute HCV infection is usually asymptomatic; however, 75-85% of cases become chronic. Chronic HCV is known to lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer over a 20-30-year course. There is no vaccine.

With the development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), HCV infection has become curable with a success rate of over 95% with appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis is therefore critically important.

Symptoms

Usually asymptomatic in the acute phase
Weakness and fatigue
Nausea and loss of appetite
Right upper abdominal discomfort
Rare jaundice
Long asymptomatic course in the chronic phase
Signs of cirrhosis in advanced stages (edema, ascites, bleeding)

Risk Factors

Intravenous drug use
Blood transfusion or organ transplantation before 1992
Use of non-sterile syringes or medical instruments
Dialysis patients
HIV-positive individuals
Healthcare workers (sharps injury)
Unprotected sexual intercourse (risk is low but present)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • For screening test in everyone with risk factors
  • Those born between 1945-1965 are within the screening recommendation
  • In fatigue and unexplained liver dysfunction
  • When HCV positivity is detected, for a treatment plan
  • In follow-up of patients at risk of developing cirrhosis

Treatment Methods

01
Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) — sofosbuvir, ledipasvir, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir combinations
02
8-12 weeks of treatment provides sustained virologic response of over 95%
03
Avoidance of alcohol and hepatotoxic substances
04
Evaluation of liver fibrosis (elastography)
05
Liver cancer screening protocol if cirrhosis has developed
06
Hepatitis A and B vaccination (to protect the liver)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.