Abstract
We examined the natural course and clinical characteristics of 147 HCV carriers. Stored serum samples obtained from patients were examined for HCV core antigen levels. Patients were classified into three groups according to the difference of HCV core antigen levels 20 years after infection: Group A, defined as HCV core antigen ≥2000 fmol/L; Group B, 20-1999 fmol/L; Group C, <20 fmol/L. The number of patients were 64 (43.6%) in Group A, 42 (28.6%) in Group B, and 41 (27.8%) in Group C. Patients in Group B were significantly higher in ZTT and significantly lower in ALB compared to those in Group A. HCV core antigen levels in Group B decreased 15-20 years after infection compared to those in Group A.
