Illness Intrusiveness of a Hepatitis C Diagnosis: A Pilot Study and the Implications for Practice

Abstract

The experience of receiving a diagnosis of hepatitis C virus (HCV) has significant psychological effects. Examining illness intrusiveness offers an opportunity to describe the impact of a diagnosis of HCV infection on important aspects of a person's life. The purpose of this pilot study was to describe the illness intrusiveness of a diagnosis of HCV in 30 adults who presented to a hepatology clinic for evaluation of their disease. The illness intrusiveness scores were lower than scores observed in other chronic conditions. Implications for practice and recommendations for future research are included.