DefinitionHepatitis C is a viral disease that leads to swelling (inflammation) of the liver.Alternative NamesNon-A or non-B hepatitisCauses, incidence, and risk factorsHepatitis C infection is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). People who may be at risk for hepatitis C are those who:Have been on long-term kidney dialysisHave regular contact with blood at work (for instance, as a health care worker)Have unprotected sexual contact with a person who has hepatitis C (this is less common, but the risk increases for those who have multiple sex partners, already have a sexually transmitted disease, or are infected with HIV)Inject street drugs or share a needle with someone who has hepatitis CReceived a blood transfusion before July 1992Received a tattoo or acupuncture with contaminated instru