CHRONIC HEPATITIS C VIRUS INFECTION: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON EPIDEMIOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF THE CONDITION

Abstract

Objective: The general objective of this study is to analyze the scientific production of chronic infection by the Hepatitis C virus, seeking to identify the main methods used in the treatment of this pathology. Methodology: This is a systematic review focused on understanding the main aspects that permeate chronic infection by the Hepatitis C virus. The research was guided by the question: “What are the main aspects that permeate chronic infection by the Hepatitis C virus, as well as what are the diagnostic and therapeutic resources used in clinical practice?” To find answers, searches were performed in the PubMed database using four descriptors combined with the Boolean term “AND”. This resulted in 542 articles. Nineteen articles were selected for analysis and 11 articles were used to compose the collection. Results: Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects approximately 200 million people globally, causing serious complications such as liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite significant advances with the introduction of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs), which have high cure rates (>95%), barriers such as limited access to diagnosis, high drug costs, and stigma associated with substance use disorder hinder disease elimination. Conclusion: Solutions such as the use of generic drugs and decentralized care strategies are essential to overcome these barriers and reduce the global burden of hepatitis C.