1. Hepatitis C polymerase chain reaction testing by GPs.
- Author
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Bailey S, Scalley B, and Gilles M
- Subjects
- Hepatitis C Antibodies analysis, Humans, Physicians, Primary Care, Pilot Projects, Surveys and Questionnaires, Hepatitis C diagnosis, Polymerase Chain Reaction methods, Primary Health Care methods
- Abstract
Background: Approximately 75% of patients exposed to the hepatitis C virus will become chronically infected. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing more than 6 months after exposure is necessary to identify this group. This pilot study assessed the practical ap-plication of PCR testing in the general practice context., Methods: General practitioners of patients newly notified as positive for hepatitis C antibody between 1 August 2007 and 1 August 2012 were invited to participate. They completed a self-administered survey, recording details on the use of hepatitis C PCR testing in their patients., Results: The survey found that 16 patients (46%) did not undergo any PCR testing for hepatitis C. Of those who underwent PCR testing, 11 (58%) were positive on PCR testing but only six (55%) of those with a positive PCR test were retested 6 months later., Discussion: Appropriate use of PCR is necessary to identify patients with chronic hepatitis C and offer appropriate referral and treatment.
- Published
- 2015