Fwd: Repost: INFO: HCV-ASSOCIATED ARTHRITIS

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American College of Rheumatology HCV-ASSOCIATED ARTHRITIS The hepatitis C virus (HCV) can cause arthritis, muscle pain and weakness, and vascular problems in addition to liver disorders. These associated inflammatory musculoskeletal disorders are very common in individuals infected with the virus

and the resulting chronic hepatitis. In fact, these disorders can appear before the patient is even diagnosed with HCV. + What it is + Living with HCV-associated diseases + What causes it + Points to remember + Who gets it + To find a rheumatologist + How it's diagnosed + For more information + How it's treated Fast Facts HCV-associated rheumatic disorders are very

common in HCV positive patients. Often the infection is latent, commonly following a contaminated blood transfusion. Patients recently diagnosed with arthritis or cryoglobulinemia (an abnormal protein in the blood) should be tested for HCV infection. Some medicines used to treat HCV, such as interferon, can induce or increase HCV-associated rheumatic disorders. http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheets/hvc-associatedarthritis.asp?aud=pat#9 Looking for a deal? Find great prices on flights and hotels with Yahoo! FareChase.

Next time I'm coming back as a cat