Chronic hepatitis B and C infection are the leading causes of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver related death in the world and in the United States respectively. Screening guidelines have been developed based on estimated prevalence determined by NHANES data. However, individuals with the most risk of chronic infection (incarcerated, homeless, immigrants, nursing home residents, and hospitalized persons) are underrepresented in this cohort leading to an underestimation of the true prevalence of chronic hepatitis B and C infection. This has led to recent updates in the screening guidelines. This review examines the change in the guidelines, the likely true seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C virus, as well as the burden of chronic infection in this population.

Recently developed direct acting antivirals have been highly effective in treating patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. Due to their expense, there has been development of generic formulations of these medications in many countries. However, there has been controversy regarding the bioequivalence of generics when compared to brand name medications. Inactive ingredients, which may differ in generic medications, can alter the bioequivalence of the active ingredient as well as provoke intolerance or confusion among patients. There is also concern regarding the quality control and assessment of the manufacturing process of generics. When taken together these issues have the potential to lead to treatment failure. The use of generics to treat chronic hepatitis C will remain controversial, until these issues are adequately addressed.

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Hepatitis B and C viruses are the leading causes of liver-related morbidity and mortality throughout the world. Hepatitis B virus is predominantly transmitted perinatally, particularly in endemic areas. The rate of mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis C virus is on the rise, largely due to the increasing opioid epidemic. While there are guidelines established for the screening and treatment of pregnant females at risk for chronic hepatitis B infection, there no such guidelines or treatment options available in pregnant females with chronic hepatitis C infection. This review examines the epidemiology of mother-to-child transmission of chronic hepatitis B and C as well as the current treatment options during pregnancy and breastfeeding for both.

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