Published online Aug 7, 2019. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i29.3897
Peer-review started: March 25, 2019
First decision: April 11, 2019
Revised: June 4, 2019
Accepted: June 8, 2019
Article in press: June 6, 2019
Published online: August 7, 2019
Processing time: 138 Days and 1.1 Hours
Globally, 69.6 million individuals were infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in 2016. Of the six major HCV genotypes (GT), the most predominant one is GT1, worldwide. The prevalence of HCV in Central Asia, which includes most of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), has been estimated to be 5.8% of the total global burden. The predominant genotype in the CIS and Ukraine regions has been reported to be GT1, followed by GT3. Inadequate HCV epidemiological data, multiple socio-economic barriers, and the lack of region-specific guidelines have impeded the optimal management of HCV infection in this region. In this regard, a panel of regional experts in the field of hepatology convened to discuss and provide recommendations on the diagnosis, treatment, and pre-, on-, and posttreatment assessment of chronic HCV infection and to ensure the optimal use of cost-effective antiviral regimens in the region. A comprehensive evaluation of the literature along with expert recommendations for the management of GT1-GT6 HCV infection with the antiviral agents available in the region has been provided in this review. This consensus document will help guide clinical decision-making during the management of HCV infection, further optimizing treatment outcomes in these regions.
Core tip: A high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been reported in Ukraine and most of the Commonwealth of Independent States regions. The scarcity of adequate epidemiological data, the lack of national guidelines, and multiple socio-economic barriers hinder the effective management of HCV infection in these regions. The current consensus document intends to guide clinicians and healthcare providers on the diagnosis, treatment, and pre-, on-, and posttreatment assessment of HCV infection and to help optimize the treatment outcomes in the region.