Hep c infection possible after transfusion 48 years ago.

[famlam]

Sorry for posting on here but I’m really worried in light of the news today about Hep c infection. My mum was given blood transfusions 48 years ago after the birth of me. She has often had slightly raised bilirubin levels and thought she had Gilbert’s syndrome. Now I’m really worried that she may have hep c. I know there is only one way to find out but I’m worried about approaching the subject as she is looking after my dad with cancer and is naturally very anxious. Is there anything after this long they could do anyway? I’m so worried.

I'd find it very hard to believe that she wouldn't have had a test for it at some point in the last 48 years. Especially since they were investigating her liver extensively for bilirubin abnormalities.

@Catza her bilirubin has been slightly elevated but always with no further action required and gp never investigated. BBC news report implies it’s often undetected for decades

Is there anything after this long they could do anyway? I’m so worried.

Yes, there are new antiviral drugs now available with roughly 95% plus cure rates.

@frankincenseandmyrrh - do you think it would still be recommended after nearly 50 years? Can’t seem to read anything of success stories after such a long time

Absolutely.

But you need to take it step by step. Diagnosis is via a simple blood test. She may not even have it.

I had a huge transfusion in the '80s (ruptured ectopic nearly died) and was never allowed to give blood afterwards (they didn't want my blood any more!). I'm thinking of getting the free NHS test. I don't think I've ever been tested, I might have had a vaccine against I don't know which Hepatitis or whether it was before or after. No particular symptoms, not that I know what they would be.

I shouldn't have read this but when I read the symptoms of long term hep c fit a lot of my health niggles. I had a transfusion 36 years ago.

I'm definitely suffering from health anxiety but I'm not sure if this is causing my brain to make links that don't actually link.

Home - HepC (hepctest.nhs.uk)

You don't even need to see a GP to get this test. And treatment is free.

Thanks @frankincenseandmyrrh. I have ordered a test. I’m absolutely terrified that she may have it. I contacted the hepatitis c trust. They did tell me that they know of people who have minimal damage after an infection that long ago and that of course there is a chance she may not have it.