HCV - scared and hopeless in Europe. Could I find out your opinion?

[Max79]

Dear Doctor,



At the beginning of my letter I would like to thank your for your time an interest. I read a lot of your answers and realized how helpful and comforting they can be for those who, like me, are desperate and depressed about a recent situation.



I decided to write to you because I made the biggest mistake of my life last saturday and I cannot forget about it and move on.



During a party in one of the clubs I was convinced by a "friend: to try amphetamine intra-nasally.



Not only did I break a word given to my girlfriend of never taking drugs but more importantly I put myself in danger of hcv while sharing a rolled banknote.



And here rises my question. I read a lot of information on hcv transmission possibly caused by snorting drugs and I am the most terrified and depressed person probably in the whole world.



Both my relationship and school life is a real mess.



I never will do it again as I hate myself for trying.



Do you consider one time (my 'frind' snorted first through my banknote that I had rolled) a significant risk?

I snorted some immediately after him and this was a new banknote but I was the second person snorting. I did not see any blood but as they say there could be unvisible traces.



I really appreciate your answer.



This was my only risk that I cannot overcome and it's gradually ruining my life.



Does it require testing or is it only 'theoretical risk' or a 'risk factor'? The more I read the more confused I am.



Thank you very much.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

The association of hepatitic C virus is with injection drug use.  HCV transmission requires blood exposure, as by shared needles; to my knowledge there is no risk from sharing snorting equipment.



HCV isn't an STD, so I won't have further comments.  For further information, you might take a look at the MedHelp hepatitis forum; or contact the American Liver Foundation (www.liverfoundation.org).



Good luck--  HHH, MD