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[Extrahepatic manifestations in chronic hepatitis C infected patients]
Krisztina Hagymási1, Anna Egresi1, Gabriella Lengyel1
1II. Belgyógyászati Klinika, Semmelweis Egyetem, Általános Orvostudományi Kar Budapest, Szentkirályi u. 46., 1088.
Insights
Chronic hepatitis C infection affects 3% globally, often causing serious extrahepatic manifestations. Early recognition and treatment are crucial, especially with new direct antiviral agents.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant global health issue, affecting 3% of the world's population.
- Extrahepatic manifestations (EHMs) occur in at least 50% of HCV patients, worsening prognosis and increasing mortality.
- Pathomechanisms of EHMs include cryoglobulin production, immune dysregulation, and direct viral effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the primary extrahepatic manifestations associated with chronic hepatitis C.
- To review current and emerging treatment strategies for HCV and its complications.
- To emphasize the importance of recognizing HCV's diverse clinical presentations in the era of direct-acting antivirals.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on HCV extrahepatic manifestations.
- Analysis of pathomechanisms including cryoglobulinemia, autoimmune phenomena, and viral pathogenesis.
- Discussion of therapeutic options, focusing on direct antiviral agents.
Main Results:
- HCV infection is linked to a wide spectrum of EHMs affecting various organ systems.
- Cryoglobulinemia, autoimmune diseases, and metabolic disorders are among the frequently observed EHMs.
- Direct antiviral agents offer highly effective treatment for the viral infection, potentially impacting EHMs.
Conclusions:
- Improved recognition of HCV-associated EHMs is essential for timely diagnosis and management.
- Effective antiviral therapies are transforming HCV management, offering hope for reducing long-term complications.
- A multidisciplinary approach is often required to manage the complex extrahepatic manifestations of chronic hepatitis C.
Abstract:
The importance of chronic hepatitis C infection is significant. 3% of the World's population is infected. There is at least one extrahepatic manifestation in 50% of HCV patients, which makes the prognosis and mortality worse. The pathomechanisms included are cryoglobulin production, immunmechanisms, and direct viral effects. The authors summarize the main extrahepatic manifestations, as well as treatment possibilities. The aim is to draw attention to this colourful infection in order to improve the recognition in the era of the new effective direct antiviral agents. Orv. Hetil., 2017, 158(16), 603-612.