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Management of hepatitis C virus in special populations: patient and treatment considerations

Robert G Gish1, Nezam H Afdhal, Douglas T Dieterich

  • 1Liver Transplant Program and Division of Hepatology and Complex GI, California Pacific Medical Center, 2340 Clay Street #232, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA. gishr@sutterhealth.org

Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology : the Official Clinical Practice Journal of the American Gastroenterological Association
|April 12, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) affects millions in the US, particularly high-risk groups like inmates and the homeless. This review covers HCV prevalence in special populations and treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common chronic blood-borne infection in the United States.
  • An estimated 3.9 million Americans are infected with HCV, with higher prevalence in specific subpopulations.
  • Injection drug use is the primary risk factor, with up to 90% of users infected.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection in special populations.
  • To discuss treatment options for severe cases, transplant recipients, and high-risk individuals.
  • To highlight the importance of monitoring and managing side effects for treatment adherence.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of hepatitis C virus prevalence studies.
  • Analysis of infection rates in subpopulations such as prison inmates, homeless individuals, and veterans.
  • Summary of current treatment guidelines and management strategies for hepatitis C virus.

Main Results:

  • HCV prevalence is significantly high among prison inmates (15%), homeless individuals (22%), and veterans (6.6%).
  • Injection drug use is strongly correlated with HCV infection.
  • Special populations often face unique challenges in accessing and adhering to treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Hepatitis C virus disproportionately affects vulnerable populations in the US.
  • Effective management requires tailored treatment approaches and close monitoring for patients with severe disease, transplant recipients, and those at high risk.
  • Addressing barriers to care and treatment adherence is crucial for controlling HCV spread.

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