The role of hepatitis C virus in alcoholic liver disease.
Alcoholism is a major public health problem across the world. However, only a minority of individuals who abuse alcohol develop significant liver injury. Interactions between alcohol and hepatotrophic viruses, particularly hepatitis C virus, have been recognized for some time. The aim of this review is to examine the seroprevalence of hepatitis C virus in individuals who abuse alcohol, and to discuss the association between hepatitis C virus infection and the histopathological and clinical findings in this group of patients. The possible pathogenesis of interaction between alcohol and hepatitis C virus is discussed briefly, and treatment options are examined.
Grellier
L F
LF
University Department of Medicine, Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine, London, UK.
Dusheiko
G M
GM
D016174:Hepacivirus / Q000472:pathogenicity*; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000473:pathology; D008104:Liver Cirrhosis, Alcoholic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D014774:Virulence