A 45-year-old man with a history of blood transfusion 4 months ago presents with fatigue and jaundice. Laboratory tests show elevated bilirubin and ALT. Anti-HCV is positive and HCV RNA by PCR is detectable. HBsAg is negative. Which statement regarding hepatitis C virus is correct?
- A HCV is a DNA virus that integrates into the host genome
- B HCV infection rarely progresses to chronicity, with less than 10% becoming chronic carriers
- C HCV is a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus of the Flaviviridae family with at least 6 major genotypes ✓
- D HCV is transmitted primarily via the fecal-oral route, similar to hepatitis A and E viruses
Correct answer: C. HCV is a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus of the Flaviviridae family with at least 6 major genotypes
Explanation
HCV is a positive-sense ssRNA virus belonging to Flaviviridae with at least 6 genotypes; genotype 1 is most common in the US and genotype 3 in India. It does not integrate into the host genome. Unlike HAV and HEV, HCV spreads parenterally. Chronicity develops in 75-85% of acute infections, making option B incorrect.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.