Analogy of human immunodeficiency virus to hepatitis C virus: The human immunodeficiency model

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) for many years overshadowed hepatitis C, which we now know is in some ways an even bigger problem. Important differences also exist between these two viruses and the diseases they cause, and we must be cautious about drawing too close an analogy. However, there are some striking similarities, and many lessons have been learned from HIV research over the past two decades. Parallels with HIV include persistence of the virus, genetic diversity during replication in the host, and the utility of combination treatment that is just now being appreciated with HCV infection. In the last few years, targeted antiviral drugs, such as protease inhibitors, have had an impressive effect on HIV-related morbidity and mortality. Similarities in the HIV and HCV genomes suggest that such drugs may also be useful in treating hepatitis. Copyright (C) 1999 Excerpta Medica Inc.