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What Is Hepatitis C?

Feb 15, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Tansheng
Introduction
Hepatitis C, formally known as hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, is a type of viral hepatitis caused by infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is primarily transmitted via blood exposure; however, a subset of patients becomes infected through close contact with individuals who have hepatitis C. Hepatitis C is classified into two forms: acute hepatitis C and chronic hepatitis C.

“Hepatitis C” commonly refers to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection—formally known as viral hepatitis type C. Hepatitis C is a viral liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). But what exactly is hepatitis C? The following section provides a detailed explanation.

What Is Hepatitis C?

The full medical term for hepatitis C is “viral hepatitis type C.” It is a viral liver disease caused by infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Transmission occurs primarily through blood exposure, although some cases result from close personal contact with an infected individual. Hepatitis C manifests in two forms: acute and chronic. Most cases are chronic; notably, chronic hepatitis C often remains asymptomatic and is frequently detected incidentally during routine health examinations. When identified early, it is fully curable. Clinically, patients may present with nausea, vomiting, dizziness, loss of appetite, generalized fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal distension. In some cases, untreated chronic hepatitis C may progress to cirrhosis.

Knowledge Extension: Modes of Hepatitis C Transmission

Hepatitis C results from infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Common transmission routes include:

1. Blood transfusion and blood product exposure: This was historically the most common route of transmission. However, improved blood screening protocols have significantly reduced this risk.

2. Close personal contact: Some individuals acquire HCV without a history of blood transfusion but through prolonged, intimate contact with an infected person.

3. Sexual transmission: HCV can be detected in the semen and saliva of infected individuals, though sexual transmission is relatively uncommon.

4. Perinatal (mother-to-child) transmission: Infants born to mothers with chronic hepatitis C have a small but definite risk of acquiring the infection.

The above outlines what hepatitis C is. We hope this information is helpful to you.

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