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Hepatitis C

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Definition:

Hepatitis C is an inflammation of the liver caused by infection with the hepatitis C virus.

Alternative Names:

Non-A or non-B hepatitis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Hepatitis C infection is caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV). Persons who may be at risk for hepatitis C are those who:

• Received a blood transfusion prior to July 1992
• Received blood, blood products, or solid organs from a donor who has hepatitis C
• Inject street drugs or share a needle with someone who has hepatitis C
• Have been on long-term kidney dialysis
• Have frequent workplace contact with blood (for instance, as a healthcare worker)
• Have or have had sex with multiple partners
• Have or have had sex with a person who has hepatitis C
• Share personal items, such as toothbrushes and razors, with someone who has hepatitis C
• Were born to hepatitis C infected mother

There are approximately 4 million people in the United States who are infected with hepatitis C (about 1 in 70 to 100 people). Other hepatitis virus infections include hepatitis A and hepatitis B . Each viral hepatitis infection is caused by a different virus.

References:

Rocca LG. Management of patients with hepatitis C in a community setting: diagnosis, discussions and decisions to treat. Ann Fam Med . 2004; 2(2): 116-124.

• Review Date: 5/4/2006
• Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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