Over thousands of years, human beings have learned to fear certain diseases. While Hepatitis may not top the list, Hepatitis C consistently ranks high among the most feared. Hepatitis C is caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), which can be easily transmitted through inadequate sterilization of medical and surgical equipment, infected needles, and transfusions of unscreened blood. Unsafe sexual practices can also transmit the Hepatitis C virus.
The Spread and Location of Most HCV Cases
Each year, nearly 150 million people are diagnosed with chronic Hepatitis C infections. Of these, nearly 700,000 succumb to this deadly viral disease. Although no vaccine has yet been developed for Hepatitis C, antiviral drugs are available that can cure almost 90% of those affected.
The disease is most commonly seen in third-world countries in Africa and East Asia. The distribution of the virus varies by country. For example, in countries where heroin use is common, the disease is often spread through the use of shared needles, and its prevalence is largely confined to the drug-using population. Multiple strains of the HCV virus exist, which can make detection of its presence in the blood somewhat difficult.
Why Is It Difficult to Detect HCV Infection?
HCV can remain latent for 2 weeks to 6 months after infection. Nearly 80% of people do not show symptoms immediately following infection. Acute Hepatitis C infection can manifest as:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Gray stool
- Dark urine
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and sclera of the eyes)
Since HCV infections are often asymptomatic, many people remain undiagnosed during the acute phase of the disease. In some cases, individuals may not exhibit symptoms for decades after the initial infection.
Special Diagnostic Techniques for Special Cases
Like all viral diseases, HCV cannot be detected using simple light microscopy. More advanced molecular techniques, such as ELISA and PCR, are recommended for accurate detection of the virus in the system. Symptoms alone are usually not enough to distinguish a Hepatitis C infection from jaundice or other forms of Hepatitis.
Accurate diagnosis is crucial before starting antiviral therapy. If treatment begins too late, many people develop chronic HCV infection, which can lead to cirrhosis and scarring of the liver. HCV infection is one of the leading causes of liver cancer in the 21st century.
How to Prevent HCV Infection
As mentioned earlier, no vaccine is available to prevent Hepatitis C. However, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself:
- Always use a latex condom during intercourse
- Before getting a tattoo or a new piercing, ensure that the needle is new
- Do not share razors
- Be cautious when getting a manicure; make sure the instruments used are properly sterilized
Today, HCV infection can be successfully diagnosed using multiple, nested serological tests that directly detect the presence of HCV antigens in body fluids.
Author Bio: Isabella Rossellinee is a renowned researcher and author who has dedicated much of her career to studying the distribution of communicable viral diseases. She has emphasized the importance of molecular diagnostic procedures, such as the ELISA test, in her research publications and articles. You can read more about her work on www.mybiosource.com.
