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Published on: September 26, 2018
Cardiovascular Manifestations of Hepatitis C Virus
Nicolas Goossens1, Francesco Negro2
1Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Geneva University Hospitals, 4 Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland.
Insights
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection significantly increases cardiovascular risks like atherosclerosis and heart disease. Treating HCV effectively may reduce these serious health events.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global health concern.
- HCV is linked to various extrahepatic manifestations, including cardiovascular disease.
- Epidemiologic studies highlight increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in HCV patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the association between Hepatitis C virus infection and cardiovascular events.
- To explore the underlying mechanisms linking HCV to cardiovascular disease.
- To discuss the implications of HCV on public health and economics.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiologic studies and scientific literature.
- Analysis of proposed mechanisms for HCV-related cardiovascular complications.
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes regarding cardiovascular events.
Main Results:
- HCV infection is associated with higher rates of carotid atherosclerosis, cerebrovascular events, and coronary heart disease.
- Mechanisms include chronic systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and direct viral effects on vascular endothelium.
- Interferon-based treatment leading to sustained virologic response shows potential for reducing cardiovascular events.
Conclusions:
- A strong link exists between Hepatitis C virus infection and cardiovascular events.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for managing HCV patients.
- Effective HCV treatment may mitigate significant cardiovascular risks, impacting public health and healthcare costs.
Abstract:
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a prevalent condition associated with numerous extrahepatic manifestations. Epidemiologic studies have found that HCV is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, in particular with carotid atherosclerosis, cerebrovascular events, and coronary heart disease. The mechanisms involved encompass a chronic systemic inflammatory state, insulin resistance, and a potential, direct infection of the vascular endothelium. Sustained virologic response with interferon-based regimens is associated with reduced cardiovascular events, although this must be validated with newer direct-acting antivirals. This clear association between HCV and cardiovascular events may have significant economical and public health implications.
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