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Prevalence and management of chronic hepatitis C virus infection in women

Lauren A Beste1, Hollye C Bondurant2, George N Ioannou3

  • 1Primary Care Service, Health Services Research and Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, 1660 South Columbian Way, S-111-GI, Seattle, WA 98108, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Washington, WA, USA.

The Medical Clinics of North America
|April 6, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing is recommended for women at high risk. While women clear HCV more readily and progress slower to cirrhosis than men, they face unique risks regarding alcohol and pregnancy.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Women's Health

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a prevalent blood-borne pathogen in the US.
  • HCV is a primary cause of cirrhosis, liver transplantation, and liver-related mortality in women.
  • Women exhibit distinct responses to HCV infection compared to men.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the importance of HCV testing in high-risk women.
  • To outline the specific considerations for women regarding HCV infection and management.
  • To inform healthcare providers about managing HCV in women, particularly concerning pregnancy and co-occurring conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current epidemiological data on HCV in women.
  • Analysis of comparative studies on HCV progression in men versus women.
  • Examination of factors influencing HCV outcomes in women, including alcohol use and pregnancy.

Main Results:

  • Women experience higher spontaneous HCV clearance rates and slower cirrhosis progression than men.
  • Women are more vulnerable to liver damage from concurrent alcohol consumption.
  • Antiviral treatment during pregnancy poses risks, and vertical transmission is a concern.

Conclusions:

  • HCV screening should be offered to women in high-risk groups.
  • Management strategies must account for women's unique physiological responses and risks.
  • Counseling on pregnancy risks and potential transmission is crucial for premenopausal women with HCV.

Keywords:
Antiviral therapyPregnancyViral hepatitisWomen

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