Hepatitis C virus infection in maintenance hemodialysis patients: recommendations for diagnostics and treatment

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Nephrology

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection presents a significant health challenge for patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis.
• HCV infection in this population contributes substantially to morbidity and mortality.
• Accurate determination of HCV genotype and viral load is crucial for effective patient management and treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) agents for treating Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in patients on maintenance hemodialysis.
• To compare treatment outcomes in hemodialysis patients with those without chronic kidney disease.

Main Methods:

• Review of antiviral treatment regimens, including standard interferon-based therapies and newer direct-acting antiviral agents.
• Analysis of clinical and laboratory data to monitor treatment response and adverse events in hemodialysis patients with HCV.

Main Results:

• Direct-acting antivirals have significantly improved the efficacy and safety of HCV treatment.
• HCV treatment with DAAs in hemodialysis patients demonstrates high effectiveness.
• Viral eradication rates in hemodialysis patients receiving DAAs are comparable to those without chronic kidney disease.
• Adverse event profiles associated with DAA treatment in this population are acceptable.

Conclusions:

• Direct-acting antivirals represent a highly effective and safe treatment option for Hepatitis C virus infection in patients on maintenance hemodialysis.
• DAA therapy offers outcomes similar to non-dialysis patients, even in this challenging-to-treat group.