Hepatitis C Flashcards
What is incubation period of hepatitis C?
Incubates over six to seven weeks.
T/F: with hepatitis C, typically asymptomatic, indolent, prolonged course until advanced liver disease develops.
TRUE
Is HIV or Hepatitis C the most common blood borne infection in the US?
Hepatitis C
What initial test do we order if we suspect hepatitis C?
Screens for HCV antibodies.
Detects antibodies 28–90 days after exposure.
What test do we order to confirm diagnosis of hepatitis C?
HCV RNA+ one to two weeks after infection
Which type of hepatitis C is most common in the US?
Type 1 HCV
***Type 1 more resistant to treatment
What medications are used for treatment of chronic hepatitis C?
Ribavirin pegylated interferon telaprevir boceprevir simeprevir sofosbuvir
What is the duration of treatment for chronic hepatitis C?
Duration 6–12 months Depending on: Genotype Viral load Liver biopsy results
Which type (s) of hepatitis are associated with hepatocellular carcinoma?
Associated with both HBV and HCV.
How do we monitor for hepatocellular carcinoma?
Test alpha fetoprotein, liver ultrasound every six months.
Babies who are exposed will retain mother’s antibodies for _____________ months?
12-18 months
Pronounced clear if they test negative after age 18 months
Infection with nontuberculosis mycobacteria Previous BCG vaccination Incorrect method of TST administration Incorrect interpretation of reaction Incorrect bottle of antigen used
The causes of false-positive reactions
Cutaneous anergy (anergy is the inability to react to skin tests because of a weakened immune system)
Recent TB infection (within 8-10 weeks of exposure)
Very old TB infection (many years)
Very young age (less than 6 months old)
Recent live-virus vaccination (e.g., measles and smallpox)
Overwhelming TB disease
Some viral illnesses (e.g., measles and chicken pox)
Incorrect method of TST administration
Incorrect interpretation of reaction
The causes for false-negative reactions
