Epidemiological, demographic and clinical data of chronic viral hepatitis C in Tuscany

AbstractBACKGROUND: Recent introduction of direct antiviral agents (DAAs) has completely changed the scenario regarding HCV treatment. Certain countries’ economic health programs prioritise DAAs according to specific clinical features of HCV-infected patients. The aim of this study was to define epidemiological, demographic and clinical characteristics of HCV-infected patients in the Tuscany region of central Italy.METHODS: We enrolled HCV patients with chronic viral hepatitis who were referred to outpatient services of 15 hospitals in Tuscany from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2015. Case report forms contained patient information including main demographic data, blood chemistry data, viral hepatitis markers, instrumental evaluations (liver biopsy or transient elastometry, liver ultrasound), eligibility for DAAs, and liver transplantation or therapy already in progress.RESULTS: Of all patients considered, 2,919 HCV patients were enrolled (mean age: 57.44 ± 15.15; 54% males, 46% females). All routes of ...