Impact of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) on cardiovascular diseases in patients with chronic hepatitis C

Minerva Gastroenterol (Torino). 2021 Sep;67(3):254-263. doi: 10.23736/S2724-5985.21.02875-8. Epub 2021 May 10.

Abstract

Introduction: In the last years the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection was a relevant public health problem due to the large number of affected people worldwide and the impact on hepatic and extrahepatic complications. The availability of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and the very high rate of sustained virological response (SVR) after treatment has radically changed the course of HCV chronic infection.

Evidence acquisition: We searched PubMed for articles published between January 1, 1995, through December 31, 2020, in English language.

Evidence synthesis: Robust evidence showed a close link between HCV infection and development of cardiovascular disease (CVD), as result of the atherogenic effect of the virus.

Conclusions: This review aimed to explore the evidence linking HCV infection with cardiovascular disease and to evaluate the impact of SVR after DAAs on cardiovascular complications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / epidemiology
  • Hepacivirus
  • Hepatitis C, Chronic* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Persistent Infection

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents