Current state of interferon therapy for chronic hepatitis C.
The current status of interferon (IFN) therapy in chronic hepatitis C is presented, focusing on the results of studies in Japan. Depending on the IFN treatment regimen used in chronic hepatitis C, it is possible to eradicate HCV in a relatively high percentage of patients (about 40%) and to achieve a cure for chronic hepatitis C. The objective of treatment should therefore be the eradication of HCV. The efficacy of IFN in chronic hepatitis C is dependent on the dosage of IFN, duration of treatment, liver histology findings, serum HCV-RNA levels, and HCV genotype. Besides a flu-like syndrome, many adverse reactions are associated with high-dose, long-term IFN treatment. However, as a rule, full recovery or improvement follows prompt withdrawal of IFN. By modification of the IFN, it will be possible to reduce adverse reactions and to create a more effective IFN to further enhance the effect of IFN in chronic hepatitis C.
Iino
S
S
Institute of Medical Science, St. Marianna, University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan.
Hino
K
K
Yasuda
K
K
D000410:Alanine Transaminase / Q000097:blood; D002908:Chronic Disease; D016174:Hepacivirus / Q000235:genetics; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007372:Interferons / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012367:RNA, Viral / Q000097:blood
D012367:RNA, Viral; D007372:Interferons; D000410:Alanine Transaminase