[Severe thyroid ophthalmopathy related to interferon alpha therapy]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Hepatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Chronic hepatitis C is a significant global health issue.
• Interferon alpha has been a primary treatment for chronic hepatitis C.
• Dysthyroid ophthalmopathy is an autoimmune condition affecting the eyes.

Observation:

• A 49-year-old patient developed severe dysthyroid ophthalmopathy, including proptosis, 3 months after initiating interferon alpha therapy for chronic hepatitis C.
• The patient experienced multiple ocular complications over a year of treatment.
• The severity of the observed dysthyroid ophthalmopathy was notably extreme and infrequent.

Findings:

• Interferon alpha therapy can be associated with various ocular damages.
• This case highlights a rare but severe presentation of interferon-induced dysthyroid ophthalmopathy.
• Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing interferon-related ocular complications.

Implications:

• Pre-treatment ophthalmological screening is essential for patients undergoing interferon therapy.
• Regular biological and ophthalmological monitoring should be implemented during interferon treatment.
• This case underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing patients receiving interferon therapy for chronic hepatitis C.