Hepatitis C

The Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver. HCV can lead to both acute and chronic hepatitis, ranging in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, lifelong condition. The virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood, most commonly through shared needles, unsafe medical procedures, or, less frequently, sexual contact. Early detection is crucial for managing the infection and preventing severe liver damage, including cirrhosis or liver cancer. Screening for HCV antibodies identifies exposure to the virus, while PCR testing detects active infection.