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Psychiatric comorbidity among hepatitis C-positive patients
S P Yovtcheva1, M A Rifai, J K Moles
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Virginia/Roanoke-Salem Psychiatric Medicine Program, Salem, VA, USA.
Psychosomatics
|December 12, 2001
Summary
Hepatitis C patients, particularly veterans, show higher rates of psychiatric disorders like mood, personality, and PTSD. Awareness is crucial as these conditions can impact hepatitis C treatment and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant public health concern, especially within veteran populations.
- Co-occurring psychiatric disorders are increasingly recognized as a complicating factor in managing chronic infections.
- Understanding the prevalence of mental health conditions in HCV patients is vital for comprehensive care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among hepatitis C-positive patients at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
- To identify specific types of psychiatric conditions commonly found in this patient cohort.
- To highlight the need for integrated mental health services in hepatitis C management.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for 306 randomly selected hepatitis C-positive veterans.
- Assessment for past and present psychiatric disorders based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria.
- Independent confirmation of psychiatric diagnoses using recorded symptoms and DSM-IV criteria.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of mood disorders (38%), personality disorders (30%), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (19%), and psychotic disorders (17%).
- Alcohol use disorders were highly prevalent (86%), while intravenous drug use disorders were less common (28%).
- Prevalence rates of these psychiatric disorders were notably higher than in the general population.
Conclusions:
- Veterans with hepatitis C exhibit a substantial burden of psychiatric comorbidities.
- Commonly observed disorders include mood, anxiety, personality, and psychotic disorders.
- Psychiatric conditions can significantly influence the course and treatment efficacy of hepatitis C, necessitating clinician awareness and integrated care approaches.
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