Three medical societies offer expert advice online to treat hepatitis C

A new website offers up-to-date guidance for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, including sections on testing and linkage to care; initial treatment and retreatment options, and unique populations such as individuals with HIV, cirrhosis or liver transplant.

A panel of 26 liver disease and infectious disease specialists and a patient advocate developed evidence-based consensus recommendations for the screening, treatment and management of patients with HCV. This guidance is intended for clinicians who treat the disease and others who need updated information about best practices. The site will be updated to keep pace with improved diagnostic tools and new drug options as they are approved by the FDA.

The website is meant to help clinicians figure out optimal treatment despite the rapid pace of drug development. For example, in the past 3 months, 2 new medications became available for treating HCV and more are expected.

The website is a collaboration of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the International Antiviral Society-USA.