Early diagnosis improves outcomes in hepatitis C

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Chronic hepatitis C (HCV) affects 0.8-1.0% of the UK population, with a significant portion remaining undiagnosed.
• Untreated HCV can lead to end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma.
• HCV is curable, with current treatments achieving over 90% cure rates and improved tolerability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the current landscape of HCV infection in the UK.
• To highlight key risk factors and diagnostic pathways for HCV.
• To emphasize the role of general practitioners (GPs) in HCV management.

Main Methods:

• Review of current epidemiological data on HCV prevalence in the UK.
• Identification of primary risk factors for HCV acquisition.
• Outline of diagnostic procedures, including antibody and PCR testing.
• Description of referral pathways for confirmed HCV cases.

Main Results:

• Injecting drug use and sharing equipment are primary HCV risk factors in the UK.
• An estimated 65% of the HCV-positive population in England remains undiagnosed.
• HCV antibody testing followed by PCR is the standard for confirming active infection.

Conclusions:

• GPs are vital in identifying at-risk individuals and facilitating HCV testing.
• Prompt referral to specialist services is essential for patients with confirmed active HCV infection.
• Improved diagnostic rates and management pathways can enhance HCV elimination efforts.