Biology of Hepatitis C virus: a review

Abstract

Background: HCV is a spherical, enveloped, positive-strand ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus that is approximately 55 nm in diameter. It is a member of the family Flaviviridae, yet distinct to be classified as a separate genus, Hepacivirus. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major health burden that affects more than 170 million people around the world.

Aim: The aim of this review is to describe the virology, epidemiology, transmission, high risk groups, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and management of HCV associated with human diseases.

Methodology: Previous studies where reviewed which showed that HCV screening and initial diagnosis are usually determined according to clinical symptoms and elevated liver enzymes (especially alanine aminotransferase [ALT]), and positive enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or chemiluminescence immunoassay (CIA) for anti-HCV antibodies in patients with known risk factors.

Conclusion: The high burden of HCV and its significant health consequences associated with chronic infection make HCV a critical public health priority. Early diagnosis and suitable treatment of HCV patients are important. Development of new techniques with the ability of rapid diagnosis and quantitative assessment of HCV infection can decline HCV burden in humans.

Keywords: HCV; Flaviviridae; RNA; diagnosis.