Hepatitis C

Patients with compensated cirrhosis should be considered for therapy, unless contraindicated.

Grade A
At least one meta-analysis, systematic review of RCTs, or RCT rated as 1++ and directly applicable to the target population; or
A body of evidence consisting principally of studies rated as 1+, directly applicable to the target population, and demonstrating overall consistency of results
See all recommendation gradingsGrade A

Patients with hepatitis C virus and concurrent operable hepatocellular carcinoma should be offered liver transplantation.

Grade C
A body of evidence including studies rated as 2+, directly applicable to the target population and demonstrating overall consistency of results; or
Extrapolated evidence from studies rated as 2++
See all recommendation gradingsGrade C

Patients with HCV associated chronic liver failure should be offered liver transplantation.

Grade C
A body of evidence including studies rated as 2+, directly applicable to the target population and demonstrating overall consistency of results; or
Extrapolated evidence from studies rated as 2++
See all recommendation gradingsGrade C

The measurement of alpha fetoprotein in isolation should not be used for screening or surveillance of the development of HCC in patients with hepatitis C.

Grade D
Evidence level 3 or 4; or
Extrapolated evidence from studies rated as 2+
See all recommendation gradingsGrade D

Surveillance using ultrasound should take place at 6 monthly intervals.

Grade D
Evidence level 3 or 4; or
Extrapolated evidence from studies rated as 2+
See all recommendation gradingsGrade D

Surveillance should be confined to patients with cirrhosis.

Grade C
A body of evidence including studies rated as 2+, directly applicable to the target population and demonstrating overall consistency of results; or
Extrapolated evidence from studies rated as 2++
See all recommendation gradingsGrade C