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Alcohol abuse and chronic hepatitis C

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Abstract

AbstractChronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and alcohol abuse are two of the most common causes of chronic liver disease in the United States. These two entities often coexist and contribute to accelerated development of liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although the effect of one drink per day in the setting of chronic HCV infection is unclear, there is overwhelming evidence for the deleterious effects of heavy alcohol use on HCV liver disease. The mechanisms by which alcohol increases liver injury in hepatitis C are poorly understood. Potential pathways include impaired host immune systems and increased viral replication. Alcohol use may decrease the success of treatment. Physicians should encourage patients with chronic hepatitis C to abstain from regular alcohol use.

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  1. VA Long Beach Healthcare System, 5901 East Seventh Street, Long Beach, CA, 90822, USA

    Timothy R. Morgan

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  1. Tom Nguyen
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  2. M. Mazen Jamal
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  3. Timothy R. Morgan
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Correspondence to Timothy R. Morgan.

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Nguyen, T., Mazen Jamal, M. & Morgan, T.R. Alcohol abuse and chronic hepatitis C. Curr hepatitis rep 6, 119–124 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11901-007-0014-7

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