Caused by the hepatitis C virus and formerly known as non-A non-B hepatitis, this infection is often transmitted through sharing needles. Blood transfusions no longer pose a significant risk because of blood screening. Hepatitis C has an incubation period of 6–12 months and begins as a mild illness which may go undetected. In about 3 in 4 patients, chronic hepatitis develops (see hepatitis, chronic), which can progress to cirrhosis of the liver and an increased risk of hepatoma.
Hepatitis C |
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