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Hepatitis C in pregnancy

Sangeeta Jain1, Nima Goharkhay, George Saade

  • 1Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstretics and Gynecology, University of Texas, Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555-0587, USA.

American Journal of Perinatology
|April 21, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease. Maternal-fetal transmission is a significant concern, especially in co-infected women, with treatment contraindicated during pregnancy.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hepatitis C is a primary cause of chronic liver disease and liver transplantation in the US.
  • Transfusion-related Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission has been minimized through blood product screening.
  • Maternal-fetal transmission is now a predominant route of HCV infection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an updated review of Hepatitis C virus (HCV).
  • To discuss disease agent, risk factors, transmission, diagnosis, and treatment.
  • To evaluate perinatal issues related to HCV.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of Hepatitis C virus (HCV).
  • Analysis of epidemiological data on HCV transmission.
  • Review of current diagnostic and treatment modalities for HCV.

Main Results:

  • HCV is a major cause of chronic liver disease and liver transplantation.
  • Maternal-fetal transmission is a key transmission route, particularly in HIV-coinfected women.
  • HCV treatment during pregnancy is not recommended, despite increased chronic liver disease risk from perinatal transmission.

Conclusions:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a significant public health concern.
  • Further evaluation of perinatal transmission and management is necessary.
  • Understanding risk factors and transmission is crucial for prevention and control.

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