Hepatitis C eradication improves cognitive function in patients with or without cirrhosis: A prospective real-life...

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Neuroscience
• Virology

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is linked to neuropsychiatric issues affecting daily functioning and quality of life.
• The reversibility of these symptoms, especially in patients with cirrhosis, remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess cognitive function, daily functioning, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after successful HCV eradication.
• To evaluate these outcomes across different stages of liver disease, including cirrhosis.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 152 patients treated with direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) were assessed.
• Neuropsychological tests and HRQoL questionnaires were administered at baseline, 12, and 48 weeks post-treatment.

Main Results:

• Viral eradication decreased cognitive impairment prevalence from 21% to 12% overall, with significant improvements in both cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic patients.
• Older patients and those with baseline cognitive impairment showed the most significant cognitive benefits.
• Improved functioning and HRQoL were observed post-eradication, though deficits persisted in the cirrhotic group.

Conclusions:

• HCV eradication effectively reduces cognitive impairment and enhances functioning and HRQoL.
• Patients with diminished cognitive reserve, such as older individuals or those with prior impairment, may gain the most cognitive advantages.
• Screening and treatment for HCV can mitigate cognitive disturbances, extending benefits beyond liver disease prevention.