Guideline for Hepatitis C in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Background

Given the high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the U.S., the KDIGO group updated its 2008 guideline to reflect major advances in managing HCV infections in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Key Recommendations

• Screen CKD patients for HCV with an immunoassay (HCV antibody), and, if positive, perform HCV nucleic acid testing (NAT; i.e., HCV RNA polymerase chain reaction assay). Patients with ongoing exposure to HCV might warrant repeat testing. Screen for HCV on initiation of hemodialysis or at transfer to a new dialysis facility or modality.

• Evaluate HCV-positive CKD patients for direct-acting antiviral (DAA)–based therapy, t…