Diagnosis and Management of Paediatric Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Abstract

Background: HepatitisC virus is a chronic life-long infection in themajority of patientswho are infected with the virus.Without accurate diagnosis and follow up, these children cannot be offered optimal care, and are at risk of presenting in adult life with significant liver pathology and long-term sequelae.
Objective: To explore the possible diagnostic andmanagement
options available to those affected.

Materials and Method: Source of informationwasmainly from published works in and outside Nigeria. The information was extracted over a period of 12months fromJanuary to December 2007.
Results: Treatment options available are use of immune response modifiers (interferons), antiviral agents (ribavirin), combination therapy with interferon and ribavirin, and liver transplantation.
Conclusion: Early identification and optimal treatment to those
in which treatment are indicated.

Niger Med J. Vol. 49, No. 4, Oct. – Dec., 2008: 96 – 100.

Keywords:Acute infective hepatitis;Catalase; LiverFunction Tests;Malondialdehyde; Superoxide dismutase