Key points for the management of hepatitis C in the era of pan-genotypic direct-acting antiviral therapy

Abstract

Hepatitis C viral infections present a significant global health challenge, carrying substantial economic implications. These infections manifest in various clinical forms, including acute and chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, hepatic failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Liver cirrhosis and HCC emerge as the primary contributors to mortality in hepatitis virus-induced liver diseases. To alleviate the public health impact of this disease, it is imperative to enhance the diagnosis and treatment rates among hepatitis C virus-infected individuals. The advent of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), especially pan-genotypic regimens such as a combination of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir, has shown remarkable progress in achieving hepatitis C cure. However, potential obstacles, such as drug adverse effects and resistance-associated substitutions (RASs), warrant attention. Managing chronic hepatitis C (CHC) requires tailored treatment plans, vigilant monitoring, and judicious re-treatment strategies.