What is the approximate risk of acquiring Hepatitis C from a needle-stick exposure?

What is the approximate risk of acquiring Hepatitis C from a needle-stick exposure?

• A. 0.3%
• B. 0.03%
• C. 30%
• D. 3%

Answer: (D)

Hepatitis C transmission from a needle-stick is a small but real risk. The figure commonly used to describe this approximate risk is about 3%—roughly a few in a hundred exposures may lead to infection. In practice, estimates often range around 1–2%, but 3% is a typical exam-worthy round number. This risk is higher than the risk for HIV from a needle-stick (about 0.3%) and lower than the risk for hepatitis B if the person is not immune (which can be around 30%). The exact risk depends on factors such as how much blood was involved, how deep the injury was, and the source’s viral load. Since there isn’t a reliable post-exposure prophylaxis for HCV, management focuses on prompt testing and follow-up rather than prevention after exposure. Baseline testing is done, with repeat testing later to detect seroconversion, and treatment is pursued if infection is confirmed.

Hepatitis C transmission from a needle-stick is a small but real risk. The figure commonly used to describe this approximate risk is about 3%—roughly a few in a hundred exposures may lead to infection. In practice, estimates often range around 1–2%, but 3% is a typical exam-worthy round number.

This risk is higher than the risk for HIV from a needle-stick (about 0.3%) and lower than the risk for hepatitis B if the person is not immune (which can be around 30%). The exact risk depends on factors such as how much blood was involved, how deep the injury was, and the source’s viral load. Since there isn’t a reliable post-exposure prophylaxis for HCV, management focuses on prompt testing and follow-up rather than prevention after exposure. Baseline testing is done, with repeat testing later to detect seroconversion, and treatment is pursued if infection is confirmed.