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Interferon-associated thyroid dysfunction in anti-D-related chronic hepatitis C
S Sachithanandan1, G Clarke, J Crowe
1Department of Gastroenterology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
Summary
Interferon (IFN) therapy for hepatitis C virus (HCV) can cause thyroid abnormalities in over 25% of patients. Regular thyroid function tests are recommended during treatment, as abnormalities may be dose-related and influenced by HCV genotype.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Hepatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant cause of chronic liver disease.
- Interferon (IFN) therapy, alone or with ribavirin, is a common treatment for HCV.
- Thyroid dysfunction is a potential side effect of IFN therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and type of thyroid abnormalities during interferon therapy for HCV.
- To compare thyroid effects of IFN alone versus IFN with ribavirin.
- To investigate the influence of HCV genotype on thyroid antibody development.
Main Methods:
- 19 patients with HCV-induced liver disease were monitored.
- Thyroid function tests were performed monthly.
- Patients received either IFN alone (Group I) or IFN with ribavirin (Group II).
Main Results:
- Thyroid abnormalities occurred in 26.3% of patients (33.3% in Group I, 20% in Group II).
- Three patients showed hyperthyroidism, with two normalizing after IFN cessation.
- Two patients developed thyroiditis requiring supplementation, one with pre-existing antibodies.
Conclusions:
- IFN therapy is associated with a notable frequency of thyroid dysfunction.
- Regular thyroid monitoring is essential for patients undergoing IFN treatment.
- HCV genotype may play a role in the development of thyroid antibodies during therapy.