Hepatitis C in Latin and North America: From Treatment Simplification to the Management of Special Populations-AASLD ALEH Webinar

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar, hosted by Dr. Ezequiel Ridruejo and Dr. Fátima Higuera, focused on the management and treatment of hepatitis C, particularly in special populations such as those with liver cancer. With record attendance from Latin America, the session featured lectures from hepatologists Dr. Harris Torres and Dr. Mario Pessoa. They explored simplifying hepatitis C treatments, how to manage patients in special populations, and the challenges of eliminating the disease.<br /><br />Dr. Pessoa discussed Brazil's approach towards micro-elimination strategies targeting high-risk groups, like prisoners and those undergoing hemodialysis, and emphasized the importance of training primary care physicians. Dr. Torres addressed hepatitis C's impact on cancer patients, specifically those with hepatocellular carcinoma, highlighting the importance of universal screening in cancer patients to uncover latent hepatitis C infections, which could influence cancer treatment strategies and improve overall patient outcomes.<br /><br />Recurrent themes included the reintegration of old patients, the importance of genotyping in distinguishing between reinfection and treatment failures, and handling drug interactions in complex treatment regimens. The session stressed ongoing challenges with special populations, like those with decompensated cirrhosis, and managing potential reactivation of hepatitis post-treatment.<br /><br />Overall, the webinar provided valuable insights into current strategies and future directions for hepatitis C management, aiming to establish best practices and recommendations for practitioners caring for patients with or at risk of viral hepatitis amid other complex conditions.

Keywords

hepatitis C

special populations

liver cancer

micro-elimination

primary care

hepatocellular carcinoma

universal screening

genotyping

drug interactions

decompensated cirrhosis