HCV_High_Yield_Flashcards
What is the family and genome type of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)?
Family: Flaviviridae. Genome: Linear positive-sense single-stranded RNA (+ssRNA).
What is the structure of HCV?
Enveloped virus with icosahedral nucleocapsid and glycoprotein spikes (E1, E2).
How is HCV inactivated in the environment?
HCV is easily inactivated by detergents and heat.
What percentage of HCV cases progress to chronic hepatitis?
85% of HCV cases progress to chronic hepatitis.
What are the complications of chronic HCV infection?
Complications include cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
What are HCV quasispecies and their clinical significance?
Quasispecies are genetic variants due to high mutation rates, making vaccine development difficult.
What are the genotypes and subtypes of HCV?
HCV has 6 genotypes and more than 100 subtypes.
What is the typical progression of HCV infection?
Out of 100 people: 75–85 develop chronic infection, 60–70 chronic liver disease, 5–20 cirrhosis, and 5–20 die of liver cancer or cirrhosis.
What are the major routes of transmission for HCV?
Major routes include intravenous drug use (70%), blood transfusion (10–15%), sexual transmission (5%), and others (e.g., occupational exposure, hemodialysis).
What diagnostic tests are used for HCV?
Serological tests (ELISA) and molecular tests (PCR) are used for diagnosis.
What is the role of ELISA in HCV diagnosis?
ELISA detects anti-HCV antibodies, indicating exposure to the virus.
What is the role of PCR in HCV diagnosis?
PCR detects HCV RNA and confirms active infection.
What is the standard therapy for HCV?
Standard therapy includes pegylated interferon and ribavirin for 6–12 months.
What are the key direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) used for HCV?
Key DAAs include sofosbuvir (effective for multiple genotypes) and protease inhibitors (boceprevir, telaprevir).
When is liver transplantation indicated in HCV?
Liver transplantation is indicated for advanced cirrhosis or liver failure due to HCV.
