[Effect of interferon-alpha2b therapy in chronic hepatitis C]

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Chronic hepatitis C (HCV) is a significant global health concern.
• Interferon therapy has shown short-term efficacy but long-term data is needed.
• Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) normalization and subjective improvements are observed with interferon treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term efficacy of interferon-alpha 2B in chronic hepatitis C patients.
• To identify factors influencing treatment response and sustained remission.
• To provide updated data on interferon therapy for chronic hepatitis C in Hungary.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, open-prospective clinical study involving 91 chronic hepatitis C patients.
• Treatment with interferon-alpha 2B at 3 million units (MU) three times weekly for one year.
• Dosage escalation to 3 x 5 MU for non-responders after 3 months; followed by a 6-month follow-up period.

Main Results:

• Long-term sustained remission was achieved in 40.6% of patients (37/91).
• Partial remission was observed in 24.2% of patients (22/91), including 5 late relapses.
• Higher sustained remission rates were noted in patients under 40 years old and with shorter disease duration.

Conclusions:

• Interferon-alpha 2B is an effective therapeutic option for chronic hepatitis C.
• Treatment efficacy is enhanced in younger patients.
• Early intervention with interferon-alpha 2B improves long-term outcomes.