Local blistering reaction complicating subcutaneous injection of pegylated interferon in a patient with hepatitis C.
PEG-Intron is a covalent conjugate of recombinant alpha-2b interferon with monomethoxy polyethylene glycol (PEG). Compared to standard interferon-alpha injections, this preparation has a longer half-life allowing for once-weekly injections and superior antiviral efficacy in the treatment of hepatitis C when used in combination with ribavirin. We report the first case of a local blistering reaction developing in a patient receiving pegylated interferon-alpha-2b. Previous reports of local cutaneous reactions to standard and pegylated interferon-alpha are reviewed and the pathophysiological mechanisms are discussed.
Gallina
Kelly
K
Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown, Ohio, USA.
Brodell
Robert T
RT
Naffah
Farid
F
Nedorost
Susan
S
D001768:Blister / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000473:pathology; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous; D000077190:Interferon alpha-2; D016898:Interferon-alpha / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; D011994:Recombinant Proteins
D000077190:Interferon alpha-2; D016898:Interferon-alpha; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; C417083:peginterferon alfa-2b; C100416:peginterferon alfa-2a