Treating chronic hepatitis C in general practice.

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection continues to result in significant morbidity and mortality in Australia. Eradication of HCV remains a challenge, with many patients unaware of their infection. With the new era of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), higher viral eradication rates are attainable, and access to treatment can be expanded by treating most patients with HCV in general practice, moving away from the traditional model of treatment by a gastroenterologist, hepatologist or infectious diseases physician. Currently available DAAs are pan-genotypic, well tolerated and safe; hence, HCV treatment can be easily undertaken in general practice.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to highlight how to use pan-genotypic DAAs and when to consider referral for a specialist opinion.

DISCUSSION: Most patients with HCV can be treated in general practice, increasing the number of patients who have access to treatment and hence reducing the likelihood of progression to advanced liver disease in these patients, as well as advancing progress towards HCV eradication in Australia.