297), text (3634), references (29) + 1 supplementary material Ratio (HR)=2•77 (95% CI 2•07-3•71) and (HR=3•83 (2•29-6•42)), respectively. On adjusted multivariable analysis, exposure to DAA was associated with a decrease in all cause-mortality (HR=0•48 (95% CI 0•33-0•70)) and HCC (HR=0•66 (0•46-0•93)), and was no longer associated with decompensated cirrhosis (HR=1•14 (0•57-2•27)). InterpretationDAA treatment is associated with a reduced risk of mortality and HCC and should be considered in all patients with chronic HCV infection.

No abstract

Relatively high percentages of real-life, treatment-experienced patients with HCV genotype 1 infection and cirrhosis respond to the combination of peginterferon and ribavirin with telaprevir or boceprevir. However, side effects are frequent and often severe. Baseline levels of albumin and platelet counts can be used to guide treatment decisions. ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT01514890.

This study shows that whole-blood specimens collected using the DBS technique can be confidently used to diagnose and monitor HCV infection. DBS could help improve access to care for HCV infection because they are suitable for use in large-scale screening programs, diagnosis, and therapeutic monitoring.

No abstract