Hepatitis C virus - Pathogenesis, Clinical Manifestation

Pathogenesis of Hepatitis C virus

The Hepatitis C virus enters the bloodstream and infects hepatocytes of the liver. The infection is mediated by the CD₈1 and other cell surface receptor that binds with the viral glycoprotein.

The liver damage associated with Hepatitis C virus infection is believed to be caused by a host immune-mediated cytolytic response. The cytolytic T-cell response is the most important factor. In a minority of patients, the virus is cleared ending the infection.

But, in the majority of infected people, HCV sets up a persistent liver infection that may last for many years leading to chronic hepatitis.

Clinical Manifestation of Hepatitis C virus

The incubation period of Hepacivirus C infection -is around 8 weeks. Hepatitis C virus infection leads to:

• acute HCV infection

• chronic HCV infection

• Cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma

Acute HCV infection

• Acute HCV infection are asymptomatic and do not develop any jaundice

• symptoms (if appear):

  • abdominal discomfort

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Fever

  • Fatigue

  • Jaundice (25% of patients)

  • Hepatomegaly (30% of patients)

Chronic HCV infection

• Hepatitis C virus major cause of chronic hepatitis worldwide

• most chronic HCV infections are asymptomatic

• some may have non-specific symptoms such as fatigue and malaise

Complications

Cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma are complications of Hepatitis C virus infection.

• Hepatitis C virus leading cause of hepatitis and cirrhosis (20% of patients with chronic hepatitis progress to cirrhosis)

• Hepatocellular carcinoma is another complication (1-5% of patients)