When and how can nephrologists treat hepatitis C virus infection in dialysis patients?

Maya I Davis1, Donald F Chute2, Raymond T Chung2

  • 1Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.

Seminars in Dialysis
|September 20, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection poses significant risks for dialysis patients. New direct-acting antiviral therapies offer a simpler, safer treatment option, enabling nephrologists to manage HCV effectively.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Hepatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a serious comorbidity in dialysis patients, increasing mortality.
  • Traditional interferon-based therapies were poorly tolerated and rarely used in this population.
  • Recent advances include interferon-free direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) with improved safety and efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the rationale and workflow for nephrology-led management of HCV in dialysis patients.
  • To identify patients suitable for nephrologist-led treatment versus those requiring specialist referral.
  • To discuss the impact of HCV on kidney transplantation and outline treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on HCV epidemiology, pathogenesis, and treatment in dialysis patients.
  • Analysis of recently approved pan-genotypic DAAs, such as glecaprevir/pibrentasvir.
  • Discussion of treatment guidelines and clinical management pathways.

Main Results:

  • DAAs offer a simplified, well-tolerated treatment option for HCV in dialysis patients.
  • Nephrologist involvement can improve treatment access and ensure appropriate patient selection.
  • Understanding genotype-specific therapies and potential barriers is crucial for successful outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Nephrology-led management of HCV in dialysis patients is feasible and beneficial.
  • Early identification and treatment of HCV can improve patient outcomes and reduce liver disease progression.
  • Integration of HCV treatment into routine dialysis care enhances patient access and quality of life.

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