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[Central nervous system involvement in hepatitis C virus infection]
P Cacoub1, A Sbaï, P Hausfater
1Service de Médecine Interne, CHU Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris.
Gastroenterologie Clinique Et Biologique
|October 8, 1998
Summary
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can affect the central nervous system, causing stroke or bleeding. These cases highlight that neurological symptoms may be the first sign of HCV infection, especially with mixed cryoglobulinemia.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hepatology
Context:
- Central nervous system (CNS) involvement is rarely documented in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.
- HCV is a significant global health concern, primarily known for liver disease.
- Mixed cryoglobulinemia is a known extrahepatic manifestation of HCV.
Purpose:
- To report three new cases of central nervous system (CNS) involvement in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.
- To emphasize the potential for cerebral ischemia and/or hemorrhage as manifestations of HCV.
- To highlight the association between HCV, CNS involvement, and mixed cryoglobulinemia.
Summary:
- Three patients (2 male, 1 female) presented with cerebral events (ischemia and/or hemorrhage).
- Hepatitis C virus infection was confirmed via RNA detection using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
- These cases demonstrate CNS involvement in HCV patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia, suggesting it can be an initial presentation.
Impact:
- Adds to the limited documented evidence of neurological complications in HCV.
- Suggests that neurological symptoms should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained cerebral events, particularly in patients with risk factors for HCV.
- Underscores the importance of screening for HCV in patients presenting with CNS issues and mixed cryoglobulinemia.