Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Infection: Screening, Diagnosis, Therapy and Prevention

Abstract

Infection with the HCV has become a big health issue worldwide. Methods based on virological and genetic aspects play an critical part in diagnosis & treatment evaluation. The traditional algorithm for diagnosing viral hepatitis consists of a test based on serum followed by a test based on genetic material. This test sequence is time consuming and not sustainable in low resource environments. In case of managing chronic HCV infection, significant updation in diagnostic methods as well as antiviral therapy plays an important role. By understanding the life cycle of hepatitis C virus, it is feasible to create antiviral that operate directly on the virus. In addition, some newer treatments are available that are subjected to a combination of antivirals and/or interferon-free regimens. But continuous advancement in diagnostics led to the replacement of regimen based on interferon with interferon-free regimen. In this review, we have summed up the outline of HCV infection, its transmission ways, screening methods. In addition, an outline on treatment and prevention measures is also provided