The increasing problem of hepatitis C virus infection.
The widespread incidence of hepatitis C (HCV) infection throughout the community is of concern. Although many of those infected will not suffer significantly from their infection, up to one-third will have liver disease, fatigue and oral health problems. General dental practitioners need to be aware of the precautions necessary in treating people with severe liver disease. This paper discusses the issues associated with treating patients who have HCV infection including the importance of preventive programs to reduce dental pathology and maximise oral health.
Coates
E A
EA
South Australian Dental Service, Adelaide Dental Hospital.
Walsh
L
L
Logan
R
R
D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001315:Australia / Q000453:epidemiology; D017742:Dental Care for Chronically Ill; D018562:Disease Transmission, Infectious / Q000517:prevention & control; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy / Q000635:transmission; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D019552:Infection Control, Dental; D000077190:Interferon alpha-2; D016898:Interferon-alpha / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012367:RNA, Viral / Q000032:analysis; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D012307:Risk Factors
D000998:Antiviral Agents; D000077190:Interferon alpha-2; D016898:Interferon-alpha; D012367:RNA, Viral; D011994:Recombinant Proteins