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Does ascorbic acid prevent retinopathy during interferon therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C?
S Nishiguchi1, S Shiomi, M Enomoto
1Third Department of Internal Medicine, Osaka City University Medical School, Osaka, Japan.
Journal of Gastroenterology
|August 2, 2001
Summary
Ascorbic acid did not prevent interferon-induced retinopathy in chronic hepatitis C patients. While hemorrhage incidence was lower in the ascorbic acid group, the difference was not statistically significant.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Ophthalmology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Interferon (IFN) therapy is used for chronic hepatitis C.
- Retinopathy is a potential side effect of IFN therapy.
- The role of ascorbic acid in preventing IFN-induced retinopathy is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of ascorbic acid in preventing retinopathy during interferon therapy for chronic hepatitis C.
- To elucidate the mechanism of retinopathy onset and prevention.
Main Methods:
- 62 chronic hepatitis C patients received interferon therapy.
- Patients were randomized to receive ascorbic acid (600 mg/day) or a placebo.
- Ophthalmologic examinations were conducted throughout the 24-week therapy period.
Main Results:
- Retinopathy occurred in 29% of the ascorbic acid group and 35% of the control group.
- Hemorrhage incidence was lower but not significantly different between groups (P=0.186).
- Significantly lower platelet counts were observed in patients who developed hemorrhage or cotton-wool spots.
Conclusions:
- Ascorbic acid supplementation was not effective in preventing interferon-induced retinopathy in chronic hepatitis C patients.
- Platelet count may be a relevant factor in the development of retinopathy during IFN therapy.