American Gastroenterological Association Medical Position Statement on the Management of Hepatitis C

 The Medical Position Statements (MPS) developed under the aegis of the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) and its Clinical Practice and Economics Committee (CPEC) were approved by the AGA Governing Board. The data used to formulate these recommendations are derived from the data available at the time of their creation and may be supplemented and updated as new information is assimilated. These recommendations are intended for adult patients, with the intent of suggesting preferred approaches to specific medical issues or problems. They are based upon the interpretation and assimilation of scientifically valid research, derived from a comprehensive review of published literature. Ideally, the intent is to provide evidence based upon prospective, randomized placebo-controlled trials; however, when this is not possible, the use of experts’ consensus may occur. The recommendations are intended to apply to health care providers of all specialties. It is important to stress that these recommendations should not be construed as a standard of care. The AGA stresses that the final decision regarding the care of the patient should be made by the physician with a focus on all aspects of the patient’s current medical situation.

 This document presents the official recommendations of the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) on “Management of Hepatitis C.” It was approved by the Clinical Practice and Economics Committee on September 17, 2005, and by the AGA Governing Board on November 6, 2005.

PII: S0016-5085(05)02271-7

doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2005.11.011

© 2006 American Gastroenterological Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.