Published on HCV Guidance (https://www.hcvguidelines.org)

Management of Acute HCV Infection

Diagnosis of Acute HCV

Recommended Testing for Diagnosing Acute HCV Infection
RECOMMENDED	RATING
HCV antibody and HCV RNA testing are recommended when acute HCV infection is suspected due to exposure, clinical presentation, or elevated aminotransferase levels (see Testing Algorithm figure).	I, C

Pharmacologic Prophylaxis

Pharmacologic Prophylaxis Not Recommended
NOT RECOMMENDED	RATING
Pre-exposure or post-exposure prophylaxis with antiviral therapy is not recommended.	III, C

Medical Management and Monitoring of Acute HCV Infection

Recommendations for Medical Management and Monitoring of Acute HCV Infection
RECOMMENDED	RATING
After the initial diagnosis of acute HCV with viremia (defined as quantifiable RNA), HCV treatment should be initiated without awaiting spontaneous resolution.	I, B
Counseling is recommended for patients with acute HCV infection to avoid hepatotoxic insults, including hepatotoxic drugs (eg, acetaminophen) and alcohol consumption, and to reduce the risk of HCV transmission to others.	I, C
Referral to an addiction medicine specialist is recommended for patients with acute HCV infection related to substance use.	I, B

Antiviral Therapy

Recommended Regimens for Patients With Acute HCV Infection
RECOMMENDED	RATING
Owing to high efficacy and safety, the same regimens that are recommended for chronic HCV infection are recommended for acute infection.	IIa, C

Last reviewed:

October 24, 2022