Based upon the kinetics of early virologic response in the peginterferon + ribavirin clinical trials, the researchers anticipate that a minimum of 12 weeks treatment is necessary to achieve a virologic response. However, the optimum duration of pre-transplant antiviral therapy that yields the highest rates of prevention of post-transplant HCV recurrence is unknown. Prolongation of antiviral therapy beyond 12 weeks may be advantageous in this regard, but prolonged therapy may also increase the risk of development of intercurrent complications of liver disease or side effects of treatment. In addition, patients with stable liver disease who achieve virologic remission may experience hepatic improvement and avoid transplantation.