A Study of Clinical, Biochemical Profile and Risk Factor of Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Tertiary Care Centre in Kumaun, Uttarakhand

ABSTRACT

Chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major public health problem. It is a major cause for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma worldwide. HCV infection is recognized now days as a disease of global importance. It is considered a major health and economic burden in adults as well as children in both developing and developed countries. Objectives: To study the Clinical presentation, biochemical profile and risk factor of chronic hepatitis C virus infected patients. Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out in the Department of Medicine at STH, Haldwani, from August 2016 to July 2018.During these study period 110 patients with Chronic HCV infection were analyzed. Results: Out of 110 patients 60 (54.54%) were male and 50(45.45%) were female. Injection drug use (IDU) was the most common risk factor of HCV infection (20.90%). The abdominal discomfort symptoms seen in majority of patients (70%) followed by a fatigue (62.72%).and fever (60.90%). Males exhibiting more symptoms in comparison to females. Conclusion: Viral hepatitis is an important heath care problem in India as it occurs epidemically and sporadically. The variability in nature of the disease regarding its onset, presenting symptoms, clinical course and development of complications are important aspects. So, it is very essential for health care professionals to be aware of all aspects of it so that it is detected and treated early.