ID - Hepatitis C Flashcards
What type of virus is hep C?
RNA virus
How is hep C spread?
Blood and bodily fluids
Vertical transmission
What vaccines are given for hep C?
No vaccines available
Curable in adults with direct acting antiviral medications
Treatments not available for kids
What is the disease course in hep C?
Adults
- 1/4 make full recovery
- 3/4 develop chronic hep C
Complications
- Liver cirrhosis and associated complications
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
How often is hep C transmitted from mother to child in pregnancy?
5-15% of the time
What measures can be used to reduce transmission in pregnancy?
Hep C antiviral not recommended
No additional measures to reduce transmission risk
What symptoms do kids with hep C have?
Tend to not have symptoms or associated pathology
Do kids spread on hep C?
Very unlikely, do not engage in IVDU or sex
Parents should be educated about hep C and modes of transmission
How is hep C tested for?
Hepatitis C antibody - screening test
Hepatitis C RNA
What is hepatitis C RNA test used for?
Confirm Hep C diagnosis
Calculate viral load
Identify the genotype
How is hep C managed in kids?
Babies with hep C positive mums tested at 18 months with antibody test
Regular specialist follow up to monitory liver function and viral load
Medical treatment can be considered in over 3s
Treatment is typically delayed until adulthood unless child significantly affected, children are typically asymptomatic and treatment in adults highly effective
Can hep C positive mums breast feed?
Yes
Not been found to spread hep C, so mothers can breastfeed
If nipples cracked or bleed should temporarily stop while they heal as blood can spread it
What can happen in hep C infections in children?
Can often clear virus spontaneously
What medical treatment can be given to kids over 3 if needed?
Pegylated interferon
Ribavirin
Less effective and well tolerated compared with adults
