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A Rare Case of Icteric Acute Hepatitis C Infection Acquired Through Intranasal Methamphetamine Use
Christina Chou1, Kidist K Yimam2, R Todd Frederick3
1Department of Medicine, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, CA.
Abstract:
Most patients with acute hepatitis C (HCV) infections are asymptomatic, while 15% present with jaundice. Intranasal drug use can uncommonly transmit HCV via contaminated instruments and nasal epithelial breakdown. Given a 15% prevalence of HCV infection in chronic methamphetamine users, recognition of potential transmission routes is important to target prevention and screening efforts in this population.
Insights
Hepatitis C (HCV) is often asymptomatic but can spread through intranasal drug use. This highlights the need for targeted prevention and screening in chronic methamphetamine users due to high HCV prevalence.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is frequently asymptomatic.
- Jaundice presents in approximately 15% of acute HCV cases.
- HCV transmission can occur through non-injection routes.
Observation:
- Intranasal drug use is an uncommon but recognized route for HCV transmission.
- Contaminated instruments and nasal mucosal trauma facilitate HCV spread via intranasal drug use.
- A significant 15% prevalence of HCV infection exists among chronic methamphetamine users.
Findings:
- Nasal epithelial breakdown and shared instruments are key factors in HCV transmission among intranasal drug users.
- The high prevalence of HCV in chronic methamphetamine users underscores the importance of this transmission route.
Implications:
- Recognizing intranasal drug use as a transmission pathway is crucial for public health.
- Targeted prevention strategies and screening programs are needed for populations at risk, such as chronic methamphetamine users.
- Understanding transmission dynamics can reduce the burden of hepatitis C infection.