We discuss the basic questions concerning hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection
and describe the molecular biological and epidemiological features of the
causative agent HCV, as well as the pathogenetic mechanisms of the HCV-rela
ted hepatic and non-hepatic diseases. We then summarize the diagnostic and
therapeutic procedures in accordance with the recent literature. All the pr
oblems are discussed from the point of view of Hungarian hepatologists who
have given an account of the experiences and possibilities concerning these
fields in Hungary.