ISSN : 2663-2187

CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF HEPATITIS C: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

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Iman Kamran, Linta Naveed, Tahreem Rauf, Alishah Zainab, Rabia Ahmed, Aleena Kamran
ยป doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.12.2024.3410-3416

Abstract

Hepatitis C, caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), presents a wide range of clinical manifestations, from asymptomatic cases to severe liver disease. Acute Hepatitis C infection is often asymptomatic or presents with mild, non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, anorexia, mild abdominal pain, and jaundice. Approximately 15-25% of individuals may spontaneously clear the virus during the acute phase. Chronic Hepatitis C, developing in about 75-85% of those infected, often remains asymptomatic for decades. During this prolonged asymptomatic phase, HCV gradually causes hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Clinical manifestations of chronic Hepatitis C are typically subtle and nonspecific, including persistent fatigue, malaise, and intermittent right upper quadrant discomfort. As the disease progresses, more severe hepatic involvement can lead to complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Cirrhosis, a significant long-term consequence of chronic HCV infection, may present with jaundice, ascites, splenomegaly, easy bruising or bleeding, and encephalopathy. Patients with cirrhosis are at increased risk for developing liver failure and HCC, the latter presenting with symptoms such as weight loss, anorexia, and a palpable liver mass. Extrahepatic manifestations of Hepatitis C, affecting up to 40% of patients, include mixed cryoglobulinemia, which can lead to vasculitis, renal disease, and peripheral neuropathy. Other systemic conditions associated with HCV include insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and lymphoproliferative disorders such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The clinical course of Hepatitis C varies widely among individuals, influenced by factors such as the patient's age, sex, duration of infection, viral genotype, co-infections (e.g., HIV), and comorbid conditions, including alcohol use and metabolic syndrome. Advances in antiviral therapies, particularly direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), have revolutionized the management of Hepatitis C, offering the potential for viral eradication and significant reduction in disease-associated morbidity and mortality. Continuous research and public health efforts are essential to improve screening, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes for individuals affected by Hepatitis C.

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