Science
Guest: Paul Kwo, MD Host: Aaron Carroll, MD Approximately three million people in the US have hepatitis C. In some cases, hepatitis C can be completely cured. However, many with the condition may be asymptomatic for decades and thus are not diagnosed until the disease has progressed into later stages. This is problematic, because when hepatitis C advances, it may cause scarring of the liver. When should liver transplant be considered for these patients? And what is the rate of recurrence and necessity for re-transplantation? Dr. Paul Kwo, medical director of the adult liver transplant program at Indiana University Health, discusses treatment options for patients with various stages of hepatitis C, as well as the evaluation process for those with advanced hepatitis C who are liver transplant candidates. Dr. Aaron Carroll hosts.