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Infection Control · single question

Regarding Hepatitis C virus (HCV), a patient with a history of HCV infection presents for dental treatment. Which of the following statements about HCV is FALSE?

  1. It can cause liver cirrhosis
  2. It is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma risk
  3. It is transmitted through bodily fluids
  4. It does NOT have a carrier (chronic) period
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Correct answer: D. It does NOT have a carrier (chronic) period

  • A. Incorrect. HCV CAN lead to cirrhosis — approximately 15–30% of chronically infected individuals develop cirrhosis over 20 years.
  • B. Incorrect. Chronic HCV infection IS a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (primary liver cancer).
  • C. Incorrect. HCV IS transmitted through blood and bodily fluids: primarily IV drug use, needle stick injuries, and less commonly sexual contact.
  • D. CORRECT. This is the FALSE statement. HCV absolutely DOES have a carrier/chronic period — in fact, HCV is notorious for causing chronic, asymptomatic infection (carrier state) for decades in most infected individuals (>70% develop chronic infection). Claiming HCV has no carrier period is incorrect.

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