[Mononeuropathy multiplex in a patient receiving interferon alpha therapy for chronic hepatitis C]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Hepatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Chronic hepatitis C is often treated with interferon alpha (IFN alpha) therapy.
• IFN alpha is administered via intramuscular injection.
• Mononeuropathy multiplex is a rare neurological complication.

Observation:

• A 61-year-old male patient developed painful dysesthesia, muscle weakness, and atrophy in his left lower extremity 17 weeks into IFN alpha therapy.
• Neurological examination revealed weakness in hip flexor, quadriceps, and thigh adductor muscles, with sensory deficits.
• Electromyography confirmed neuropathic changes, and CT scans showed muscle atrophy.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with mononeuropathy multiplex affecting the left femoral and obturator nerves.
• The condition was attributed to the interferon alpha therapy.
• Symptoms significantly improved spontaneously two months after discontinuing IFN alpha treatment.

Implications:

• Clinicians should monitor for neurological symptoms like dysesthesia, weakness, and atrophy during IFN alpha therapy.
• Early recognition and potential discontinuation of IFN alpha may lead to spontaneous recovery.
• This case highlights a potential adverse effect of IFN alpha therapy on peripheral nerves.