Section I: Introduction: HCV

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a blood-borne virus that was previously referred to as non-A/non-B hepatitis. HCV has six major genotypes (subtypes): 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3, 4, 5, and 6. Genotypes 1a and 1b, which are the most common in the U.S., are more difficult to treat. HCV enters the body through direct blood exposure. The virus attacks cells in the liver, where it multiplies (replicates). HCV causes liver inflammation and kills liver cells. As many as 80-85% of people initially infected with HCV may become chronically infected-that is, the infection does not clear up within six months. Most people with chronic HCV do not have symptoms and lead normal lives. However, in 10-25% of people with chronic HCV, the disease progresses over a period of 10-40 years, and may lead to serious liver damage, cirrhosis, and/or liver cancer. Today HCV is the leading reason for liver transplants. There is currently no vaccine or cure for HCV, but various treatments can reduce or stop virus replication and help slow or stop disease progression.

Permission to reprint this document is granted and encouraged with credit to the Hepatitis C Support Project www.hcvadvocate.org