Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 20, 2026

Author Spotlight: Hickman Catheter Use for Long-Term Vascular Access in a Preclinical Swine Model
Published on: March 31, 2023
HCV counselling in haemophilia care
1Haemophilia Centre and Haemostasis Unit, Royal Free Hospital and School of Medicine, London Riva Miller, B.A.Soc.Sc., A.I.M.S.W., Social Worker and Family Therapist, Haemophilia Centre and Haemostasis Unit, AIDS Counselling Co-ordinator, AIDS Unit, and Honorary Senior Lecturer, Royal Free Hospital and School of Medicine, Pond Street, London NW3 2QG. Consultant, North London Blood Transfusion Centre.*Paul Telfer, M.R.C.P., Clinical Research Fellow, Haemophilia Centre and Haemostasis Unit, Royal Free Hospital and School of Medicine, London.
Insights
Counselling patients with haemophilia and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is challenging due to uncertainties. This review provides background on HCV natural history, transmission, diagnosis, and treatment to aid patient counselling.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection presents significant challenges for patient counselling, particularly in populations like those with haemophilia.
- Uncertainties surrounding HCV natural history, transmission, and management complicate effective communication and support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of current knowledge regarding hepatitis C.
- To establish a foundational understanding for effective counselling of patients with haemophilia and HCV.
- To suggest guidelines for counselling patients and their contacts regarding HCV.
Main Methods:
- Literature review summarizing current understanding of HCV.
- Analysis of HCV natural history, transmission routes, and diagnostic methods.
- Overview of available treatment options for HCV infection.
Main Results:
- The review synthesizes information on HCV epidemiology, clinical progression, and diagnostic approaches.
- Current treatment modalities and their efficacy are discussed.
- Key challenges and areas of uncertainty in HCV counselling are identified.
Conclusions:
- A thorough understanding of HCV is essential for effective patient and contact counselling.
- Addressing uncertainties and providing clear guidelines can improve the counselling process for individuals with haemophilia and HCV.
- Further research may be needed to resolve remaining uncertainties in HCV management and counselling.
Abstract:
The many areas of uncertainty about HCV make counselling patients with haemophilia and HCV a challenge. In this review a brief summary is made of the current understanding of the natural history of hepatitis C infection, the modes of transmission, diagnostic techniques, and treatment options available. This forms a necessary background to counselling patients and their contacts. Some difficulties are highlighted and counselling guidelines about the disease with patients are suggested.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management
Disorders of Hemostasis
Thromboembolic Disorders
Two factors primarily cause thromboembolic conditions.
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Hemodialysis III: Nursing Management
Hepatitis

