Vertical transmission of hepatitis C virus infection

Infections with hepatitis C virus (HCV) are widespread in most countries. Vertical transmission of HCV has become quite frequent. This study presents the case of a female neonate infected in the womb. The mother had been exposed to infectious material, and developed asymptomatic acute hepatitis with high-maternal viral load, which was the primary cause of the infection in the neonate. At birth, the neonate developed hyperbilirubinemia, followed by an increased aminotransferase activity, resulting in liver insufficiency, and finally the neonate's death. In conclusion, it seems that maternal viral load is extremely significant when vertical transmission of the infection to the fetus is concerned. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.