This multidisciplinary overview covers basic concepts related to the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus, development of serological and nucleic acid tests to detect infection, the structure of the virus genome, generation of virus gene products, and proposed replication scheme. The volume discusses the epidemiology, transmission, pathogenesis of infection, the development of hepatocellular carcinoma associated with chronic virus infection, and current strategies for treatment. It also discusses advances in cell culture systems, animal models of infection, and emerging treatments and vaccine development.