Brief Answer:
Please find details below

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,
Thanks for writing in to us.

I have read through your query in detail.
Hepatitis C infection is seen in many people and you have genotype 3 of the virus which is present in 10 percent of those with HCV infection.

First it is important to know the viral load you have. It is measured by doing a blood test and the viral load first needs to be analysed if it is high or low. Irrespective of high or low, it can be lowered with the help of injections and medications.

Genotype 3 is now potentially the most difficult to treat genotype and an area of intense research for new drug development. However there is a lot of new treatment options being found and I am sure your will lead a healthy life.

It is seen that genotype 3 patients have a higher probability of developing fatty liver. The transformation from fatty liver to fibrosis happens more after the age of 45 years. At 34 years you might still be away from complications like liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Incidence of hepatocellular cancer is more only after 60 years of age and in those with alcohol consumption.

The current or past use of significant amounts of alcohol is the single most important factor in accelerating progression to cirrhosis and it is recommended that you stay away from intake of alcohol.

Also you must avoid excessive vitamin A and acetaminophen intake. This can cause more liver problems. Also please avoid iron supplements other than what you take in your diet.

The biopsy has been recommended as genotype 3 patients have a higher incidence of fibrosis and cirrhosis and this guides the initiation of treatment. Initiation of treatment is with 24 weeks of treatment in type 3 and the regimens are changing with development and research in this field. Additional treatment is given as per response of medications.

Please do not worry about longevity with the disease. There are reports of people living for 30 to 40 years with HCV infection and little liver disease.

HCV cannot be cured but if viral load is undetectable after recommended therapy then the possibility of complications is greatly reduced.

Liver transplantation is indicated in patients with life-threatening cirrhosis, and those with hepatocellular carcinoma on cirrhosis. Patients with cirrhosis should be considered for transplantation if they develop complications of their cirrhosis and have a life expectancy of 12 years without transplantation.

Hope this answers your question. Please feel free to correct any oversight in my interpretation of your problems and discuss them in detail as per your requirements.

Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.

Regards,
Dr.Vivek

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