Chronic hepatitis in haemophilia

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Hematology

Background:

• Chronic hepatitis impacts nearly all hemophiliacs receiving non-virally inactivated clotting factor concentrates.
• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the primary cause, with most patients exhibiting non-neutralizing antibodies and circulating virus.
• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is common, but chronic carriage (HBsAg) affects less than 5%.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and impact of chronic hepatitis C in hemophiliacs.
• To evaluate treatment outcomes for chronic hepatitis C in this population.
• To explore the role of liver transplantation in managing advanced liver disease and hemophilia.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of patient data on hepatitis C and B infection markers.
• Assessment of liver function in patients undergoing treatment.
• Review of outcomes for patients treated with interferon alpha and liver transplantation.

Main Results:

• Chronic hepatitis C is nearly universal in hemophiliacs treated with clotting factors.
• Subcutaneous recombinant interferon alpha normalizes liver function in 50% of patients, with 50% relapsing post-treatment.
• Liver transplantation is effective for advanced liver disease and provides a phenotypic cure for hemophilia.

Conclusions:

• Chronic hepatitis C is a significant complication in hemophilia treatment.
• Interferon therapy offers temporary remission, necessitating further treatment strategies.
• Liver transplantation presents a viable option for severe cases, addressing both liver disease and hemophilia.