DEVELOPMENTS IN ANTIVIRAL THERAPY AND DIAGNOSIS FOR CHRONIC HEPATITIS C

Hepatocellular carcinoma, cirrhosis, fibrosis, and chronic inflammation are all consequences of the progressive viral infection known as chronic hepatitis C (HCV). The hepatitis C virus, an RNA virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family, is the cause of the illness and is mostly spread via blood contact. The introduction of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), which precisely target viral replication pathways, has revolutionised the treatment of HCV thanks to advances in molecular virology. Due to their superior tolerability, reduced treatment time, and high sustained virologic response (SVR) rates, these medicines have supplanted conventional interferon-based regimens. To eradicate the virus and avoid problems, early diagnosis, genotyping, and optimal medication selection are crucial. Reducing disease burden and transmission still requires comprehensive care, which includes lifestyle change, patient education, and routine monitoring.