Hepatitis C Pediatric Research Study

Hepatitis C: What Parents Need to Know

Hepatitis C virus (Hep C or HCV) is a virus that can cause liver disease. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious liver damage and improve long-term health.

About this Research Study

What is hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C virus (Hep C or HCV) is a virus that can cause liver disease. Although most children and adolescents recover from the initial phase, 60-80% of them may develop signs of chronic liver infection.

The purpose of this study

Our research is developing a new investigational type of testing to be used in the future for children who have possibly been exposed by their mother during pregnancy to the Hepatitis C Virus. 

Symptoms of HCV infection

Infants and children with HCV infection usually do not have symptoms. For those who develop symptoms, the infection may begin as nothing more than a mild flu-like illness.

How to diagnose HCV infection in children

Diagnosing an HCV infection requires testing a child's blood for the virus. Initial testing is to screen with the HCV antibody test that measures a protein in the blood that is made to fight germs such as viruses or bacteria. If the antibody test is positive, infection should be confirmed with a test that detects presence of the HCV virus in the bloodstream.

Current treatments are very effective

There is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C. The good news is that very effective treatments are available.

Enroll Now

Who can participate in this research study for a new investigational test to diagnose hepatitis C virus in children? 

Your child may qualify if:

• Your child is 18 months old to 10 years of age
• Birth mother of child has documented exposure to HCV