Unique Challenges of Hepatitis C in Infants, Children, and Adolescents

Abstract

Purpose: Hepatitis C, a chronic disease with deadly consequences, is no longer predominantly a disease of older people.

Methods: A limited search was conducted of the relevant literature on 2 topics: (1) the impact of hepatitis C on infants exposed by vertical transmission; and (2) the impact of hepatitis C infection on infected children and adolescents. The findings were supplemented by the first-hand experience of the authors.

Findings: Young people, including women of childbearing age, infants, children, and adolescents, are being especially affected by hepatitis C infection secondary to the intravenous drug use and opioid epidemic. Unfortunately, estimates of disease in young populations are all misleading because universal screening has not been implemented.

Implications: Lack of implementation of policies for screening and therapy on most affected populations will be responsible for perpetuation of this infection. In the era of highly effective therapy and a regimen that is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for children, this outcome is unacceptable.

Keywords: DAAs; HCV; MTCT; direct-acting antiviral; hepatitis C virus; mother-to-child transmission.