Final answer:
Children who acquire HCV from their mothers can become chronic carriers of the virus and may develop long-term liver conditions such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. A significant number of these children can remain asymptomatic yet still have progressive liver damage as they grow older. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing potential health risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Possible long-term outcomes of children who acquire Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) via mother-to-child transmission include chronic liver disease, such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer, and a higher likelihood of becoming chronic carriers of the virus. Chronic carrier status is more common in children with approximately 75%-85% of those infected by HCV entering a chronic infection phase. Although some individuals may be asymptomatic, the virus can quietly cause progressive liver damage over time.
Approximately 90% of infants infected with HBV become chronic carriers, and while HCV transmission mechanisms are similar, they tend to result in a chronic state for a significant portion of those affected. The risk of transmission is high in individuals with a history of intravenous drug use or who have had sexual contact with an infected individual. Vaccination for HBV, therefore, is critical and recommended, meanwhile, new effective treatments for HCV are showing promising results.
It is crucial to note that some children may never show symptoms or suffer significant long-term health issues, while others could face more severe complications. Establishing early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can aid in managing and mitigating these risks.