Initial testing consists of measuring serum HCV antibodies. Identification of viral RNA by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction aids in confirming the diagnosis and can help suggest a prognosis. A positive HCV-antibody test in patients with risk factors for exposure or elevated liver enzyme levels confirms chronic infection. In low-risk patients, confirmatory antibody testing with the recombinant immune blot assay is appropriate. Measurement of viral load with reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction is currently the leading method of following response to treatment.
Liver biopsy is the best way to assess disease progression.
They possess intrinsic antiviral activity and may play a role in a variety of other mechanisms as well. Candidates Interferon therapy should be considered in all patients with compensated chronic HCV infection, elevated transaminase levels, serologic evidence indicating hepatitis C, and liver biopsy evidence indicating chronic hepatitis. The recommended regimen for interferon therapy consists of 3 million units given by subcutaneous injection three times a week. In about half of patients, transaminase levels and findings on HCV RNA testing return to normal by the end of 3 months of therapy. These patients should receive the drug for a minimum of 6 months.