Asian perspectives on viral hepatitis: hepatitis C virus infection.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is widespread throughout Asia. Unusual features of HCV in Asia include a novel genotype distribution with a significant representation of 3a. This is particularly important as genotype 3 is very sensitive to interferon-based therapies. A major concern in the Asian region is the high prevalence of hepatocellular cancer complicating HCV-associated cirrhosis, particularly in Japan. Finally, liver transplantation for advanced HCV infection with cirrhosis is an option via cadaveric and living donor programmes.
McCaughan
G W
GW
AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. g.mccaughan@centenary.usyd.edu.au
D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001208:Asia / Q000453:epidemiology; D005838:Genotype; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D016031:Liver Transplantation; D015995:Prevalence
D000998:Antiviral Agents