Complications of Hepatitis C
In approximately 15% of cases, the body may clear the Hepatitis C virus on its own. However, in 70-85% of patients, the infection progresses from acute to chronic.
Chronic Hepatitis C, like acute Hepatitis C, is often asymptomatic. However, some cases may present symptoms such as fatigue, nausea and vomiting, pain in the upper right abdomen, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and other symptoms.
Currently, Egypt offers a cure for Hepatitis C with a success rate exceeding 98%, which prevents the development of symptoms. However, neglecting screening and treatment can lead to the development of severe complications, including:
- Liver Fibrosis: Chronic Hepatitis C can lead to liver fibrosis in 25% of patients within 10 years or more. Symptoms of fibrosis may not always be present, and liver and spleen enlargement may be the only indication of its presence.
- Liver Failure and Liver Cancer: Liver fibrosis can progress over time, leading to symptoms of liver failure and liver cancer. However, the progression from Hepatitis C to liver cancer is very slow and typically requires decades to occur, often due to years of neglecting screening and treatment.
From the book “100 Questions About the Liver” by Professor Dr. Gamal Shiha, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Egyptian Liver Foundation and Chairman of the Education and Scientific Research Committee in the House of Representatives.