A general approach to the management of chronic hepatitis C.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common chronic blood-borne infection in the United States. Although many will live a lifetime unaffected by the consequence of chronic infection, some will develop cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. Given the broad spectrum of disease outcomes, developing a careful systematic approach to infected patients is fundamental. This allows the practitioner to provide accurate education, develop treatment plans, and determine appropriate health care maintenance and screening. Care for the patient with HCV must be individualized. In this regard,the purpose of this article is not to present a guideline, but to provide a foundation of information that will aid the provider and patient in developing an appropriate treatment strategy.