| Theme | Extrahepatic Manifestation in HCV Infection | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | HCV Infection and Oral Lesion | |
| Publish Date | 1999/03 | |
| Author | Yumiko Nagao | Department of Oral Surgery, Kurume University School of Medicine |
| Author | Tadamitsu Kamayama | Department of Oral Surgery, Kurume University School of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] | Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can lead to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as extrahepatic manifestations. Oral lichen planus (OLP) is frequently seen in patients with HCV infections. To elucidate the relationship between oral lesions and HCV infections, we analyzed the relationship between these diseases and HCV infections, involving the mass screenillg of inhabitants of HCV hyperendemic areas. In addition, we investigated the genotypes of HCV, serum levels of HCV RNA, and the existence of HCV in their tissues. We found a high prevalence of HCV infection in oral cancer and OLP patients in our country. Furthermore we reported on an issue of great interest : the persistence and replication of HCV in these oral lesions. These studies suggest that HCV infections may be a causative factor in the development of OLP and oral cancer, although the mechanisms which contribute unclear. |
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