Chronic hepatitis C

Patent Granted About 80% of those exposed to the virus develop a chronic infection.[12] This is defined as the presence of detectable viral replication for at least six months. Most experience minimal or no symptoms during the initial few decades of the infection.[13] Chronic hepatitis C can be associated with fatigue[14] and mild cognitive problems.[15] Chronic infection after several years may cause cirrhosis or liver cancer.[7] The liver enzymes are normal in 7–53%.[16] Late relapses after apparent cure have been reported, but these can be difficult to distinguish from reinfection.