Hepatitis C
Description
- Enveloped ssRNA flavivirus. No DNA intermediate, no integration, no nuclear reservoir
- Why HCV is curable and HBV is not
- Error-prone RNA polymerase -> quasispecies swarm -> immune escape, no effective vaccine
- 6 major genotypes (1-6)
- Genotype 1 commonest in Australia; genotype 3 = more steatosis, faster fibrosis, historically lower SVR
- Genotyping is no longer required before treatment - pan-genotypic DAAs
- Least likely hepatotropic virus to cause acute liver failure, most likely to become chronic
6 more sections, plus exam facts
Premium unlocks every note across every specialty, and the full exam fact library behind it.
Get premium access