Hepatitis C Virus Structure and Diagnostic Methods

Abstract

It is estimated that approximately 185 million people worldwide are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The global prevalence of HCV infection is known as 2–3%. Every year, 350,000 of these patients die from complications such as cirrhosis and HCC associated with chronic hepatitis C. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are of great importance. It is important to reach more patients because of the use of direct-acting antivirals that provide nearly 100% permanent viral response in the treatment of HCV. In line with the 2030 target of the World Health Organization for the elimination of hepatitis C, it is important to raise awareness that HCV is a treatable disease. This chapter aims to briefly review the structure and diagnostic methods of HCV.