Archives

Fibroscan – a non-invasive ultrasound scan that measures the ‘elasticity’ or stiffness of the liver. i-Base video of a FibroScan on YouTube.

fibrotest – a test which uses results from blood tests to predict liver damage and which may become an alternative option to liver biopsy in some patients.

SVR (sustained virological response) – having a negative HCV viral load test 6 months after stopping HCV treatment. The response, 6 months after treatment is stopped, determines whether treatment has been effective in terms of clearing HCV. SVR is the …

EVR (early virological response) – a 99% (2-log ) drop in HCV viral load after 12 weeks of HCV treatment.

ETR (end of treatment response) – having an undetectable HCV viral load at the end of HCV treatment. See SVR.

epoetin-alpha (EPO) – a treatment for anaemia, given by injection. Used to reduce side effect of hepatitis C treatment.

encephalopathy – degenerative brain function or disease

cryoglobulinemia – increased blood levels of abnormal proteins called cryoglobulins that can inflame blood vessels and thicken blood.

fibrosis – mild to moderate scarring of the liver (see cirrhosis)

cirrhosis – severe scarring of the liver (see fibrosis) that makes it difficult for the liver to carry out its functions

biopsy – taking a small sample of body tissue for examination and testing in the laboratory.

bilirubin – a liver enzyme. Increased levels of bilirubin lead to a yellowing of the skin or eyes. Bilirubin and side effects

bile duct – a tube that carries bile from the liver to the gallbladder and then to the small intestine biopsy: taking a small sample of body tissue for examination and testing in the laboratory

autoantibody – abnormal antibodies produced against the body’s own tissues.

ascites – an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, a sign of serious liver damage in people with hepatitis C.

antioxidant – a substance that reduces oxidative damage (damage due to oxygen) such as that caused by ‘free radicals’

albumin – a protein made by the liver. It carries drugs, hormones and waste products through the blood and maintains fluid levels within the body. An abnormally low level of albumin is a sign of serious liver damage.

haematology – study (-ology) of blood (haema-)

HIV – Human Immunodeficiency Virus

NOTE: This guide was updated in November 2013 and the links below are to this updated version. Read the 2013 guide online Order a free print copy Download 2009 PDF 935 Kb Update of our guide for people with HIV/HCV …