Hepatitis C virus in chronic dialysis patients

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Updated: Aug 17, 2026

A Protocol for Analyzing Hepatitis C Virus Replication
13:04

A Protocol for Analyzing Hepatitis C Virus Replication

Published on: June 26, 2014

S N Natov1, B J G Pereira

  • 1Northeast Specialty Hospital, Braintree, Natick, Stoughton, Waltham, MA, USA.

Minerva Urologica E Nefrologica = the Italian Journal of Urology and Nephrology
|June 30, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is more common in patients undergoing hemodialysis, negatively impacting their survival. Strict infection control and antiviral therapy are crucial for managing HCV in this vulnerable population.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Hepatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection poses a significant health challenge, particularly for patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).
  • Hemodialysis patients exhibit higher HCV incidence and prevalence compared to the general population.
  • HCV infection adversely affects survival outcomes in ESKD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiology and risk factors of HCV infection in hemodialysis patients.
  • To discuss strategies for controlling HCV transmission in dialysis units.
  • To outline recommendations for managing HCV in ESKD patients.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on HCV infection in end-stage kidney disease patients.
  • Analysis of risk factors contributing to HCV transmission in hemodialysis settings.
  • Summary of current infection control practices and therapeutic recommendations.

Main Results:

  • Hemodialysis patients face elevated risks of HCV infection due to various factors including transfusions, dialysis duration, and nosocomial transmission.
  • Breakdowns in infection control practices facilitate HCV spread within dialysis units.
  • HCV infection is linked to poorer survival rates in this patient group.

Conclusions:

  • Strict adherence to universal precautions, hygiene, and machine sterilization is vital for preventing HCV transmission.
  • Routine serologic testing and surveillance are essential for early detection and management.
  • Antiviral therapy, such as interferon alpha, is recommended for select HCV-infected hemodialysis patients and transplant candidates.

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