Dr Mia Biondi – Perinatal hepatitis C screening, care and treatment: Preconception to paediatrics

Dr Mia Biondi – Perinatal hepatitis C screening, care and treatment: Preconception to paediatrics

🎙 Dr Mia Biondi 👥 1K 📅 February 11, 2026 ⏱ 56 min 👁 52 📄 literature review 🧭 2026-08-16
Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

hepatitis Cpregnancyvertical transmissionscreeningtreatment

Summary

Dr Mia Biondi presents a comprehensive overview of perinatal hepatitis C (HCV) care, from preconception to pediatrics. She highlights the increasing prevalence of HCV among women of childbearing age, the importance of universal screening in pregnancy, and the emerging evidence for case-by-case treatment during pregnancy to prevent vertical transmission. She reviews Canadian data showing gaps in prenatal care and postpartum follow-up, and emphasizes the need for gender-specific approaches and stigma reduction. The presentation covers updates in pediatric screening and treatment, noting that many children with a screening indication are not being tested, despite effective treatments for children as young as three. She discusses the shift towards earlier RNA testing at 2-6 months due to poor antibody screening uptake. Throughout, she advocates for a comprehensive, patient-centered model of care that addresses the unique needs of women and families affected by HCV.

140 words

Critical Evaluation

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The presentation provides valuable insights into the current state of perinatal HCV care, supported by recent data and guidelines. The argumentation is solid, drawing on epidemiological studies, systematic reviews, and clinical experience. The speaker effectively argues for universal screening and case-by-case treatment in pregnancy, backed by evidence of safety and efficacy. She also highlights critical gaps in care, such as low postpartum treatment rates and inadequate pediatric screening, making a strong case for improved care pathways.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The presentation demonstrates scientific rigor, referencing key studies and guidelines from Canada, the US, and international bodies. The speaker clearly distinguishes between guideline-driven recommendations and her own clinical opinions, and discloses off-label medication use. The title accurately reflects the content, covering the full spectrum of perinatal HCV care. The speaker also acknowledges limitations, such as outdated Canadian data and the need for more research in certain areas.

158 words

Title / Content Match

The title accurately reflects the content, covering the full spectrum from preconception to pediatric care.

Quality & Reliability

8/10

Presentation by a recognized expert in hepatitis C care, based on published studies, Canadian guidelines, and clinical experience. Data sources are credible, but some recommendations are based on expert opinion and off-label use.

Key Moments

Cited Sources

Concurring Sources

  • AASLD/IDSA HCV Guidance — Recommendations for universal screening and treatment in pregnancy
  • EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines — European guidelines supporting universal screening and case-by-case treatment

Dissenting Sources

  • Canadian guidelines (2018) — Older Canadian guidelines recommended against treatment in pregnancy, which the speaker argues is outdated.

Contribution & Novelties

The presentation provides a comprehensive and up-to-date synthesis of perinatal HCV care, highlighting recent shifts in screening and treatment recommendations. It emphasizes the importance of a gender lens and the need for tailored approaches for women and pregnant individuals. The speaker shares Canadian data and clinical insights that may not be widely known, contributing to the field.

Pour aller plus loin :

94 words

Radar Profile

The radar profile shows high scores in information quantity, quality, and reliability, with a slightly lower technical level, indicating a presentation that is comprehensive and evidence-based but accessible to a broader audience.

Reliability 8/10