Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 3, 2026

The CYP2D6 Animal Model: How to Induce Autoimmune Hepatitis in Mice
09:03

The CYP2D6 Animal Model: How to Induce Autoimmune Hepatitis in Mice

Published on: February 3, 2012

Generalized peripheral lymphadenopathy in a patient treated for chronic HCV infection

Carlos Noronha Ferreira1, Elidio R Barjas, Luis A Correia

  • 1Gastroenterology and Hepatology Division, Hospital Santa Maria, Lisbon, Portugal. carlosnferreira@hotmail.com

Nature Clinical Practice. Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|July 9, 2008
PubMed

Insights

This case study highlights granulomatous lymphadenitis in a patient treated for Hepatitis C virus (HCV). The condition presented as enlarged lymph nodes during interferon and ribavirin therapy, resolving with anti-tuberculosis treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Oncology

Background:

  • A 62-year-old woman with chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection completed treatment with pegylated interferon alpha and ribavirin.
  • The patient achieved a sustained virological response post-treatment.

Observation:

  • Progressive, painless lymph node enlargement in the supraclavicular and axillary regions was noted during the final weeks of HCV treatment.
  • Extensive investigations including imaging (CT, MRI), endoscopy, and biopsy were performed.

Findings:

  • The lymph node biopsy revealed granulomatous lymphadenitis with sarcoid-type and tuberculoid-type granulomas.
  • The etiology of the granulomatous lymphadenitis was initially uncertain.

Implications:

  • The case suggests a potential link between interferon-based therapy for HCV and the development of granulomatous lymphadenitis.
  • Successful treatment with standard anti-tuberculosis medication indicates a possible mycobacterial trigger or a similar inflammatory response.
  • This presentation underscores the importance of considering diverse etiologies for lymphadenopathy in patients undergoing antiviral therapy.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Hepatitis01:25

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammatory condition of the liver most commonly caused by hepatotropic viruses (A–E), though non-infectious causes such as alcohol and drugs also exist.Hepatitis AHepatitis A virus (HAV) is a non-enveloped RNA virus of the Picornaviridae family. It is primarily transmitted via the fecal-oral route, typically through ingestion of contaminated food or water. After ingestion, HAV enters the bloodstream through the oropharynx or intestinal epithelium and reaches the liver. The...
Viral Hepatitis I: Introduction01:28

Viral Hepatitis I: Introduction

Viral hepatitis is an inflammatory condition of the liver caused by infection with hepatotropic viruses, most commonly hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Despite variations in structure and transmission, all viruses mentioned infect hepatocytes and provoke immune responses that can hinder liver function. Additionally, some non-hepatotropic viruses can also lead to hepatic inflammation.Hepatitis A VirusHepatitis A virus (HAV) is transmitted through the fecal–oral route, typically by ingestion of food...
Diseases of the Liver and Gallbladder01:26

Diseases of the Liver and Gallbladder

Liver and gallbladder diseases are a significant health concern, with prominent conditions including cirrhosis, hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and gallstones. Jaundice is a common manifestation of liver and biliary disease.
Cirrhosis is characterized by the scarring of hepatic lobules in the liver, which are replaced by fibrous tissue, affecting the liver's normal functioning. NAFLD, on the other hand, is caused by an excessive build-up of fat in the liver, not related to...
Cirrhosis I: Introduction01:23

Cirrhosis I: Introduction

Cirrhosis is a chronic, irreversible liver disease characterized by the widespread replacement of healthy liver tissue with fibrotic scar tissue and the formation of regenerative nodules.Etiology of cirrhosisCirrhosis results from sustained liver injury that triggers progressive fibrosis and structural remodeling. The underlying causes are diverse, encompassing common and less frequent clinical conditions. Regardless of the origin, all causes lead to chronic inflammation, hepatocyte loss, and...
Cholecystitis01:20

Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, most commonly caused by obstruction of the cystic duct. This blockage prevents bile from draining, leading to gallbladder distension, inflammation, and potentially serious complications. This condition may present acutely or chronically and can happen with or without gallstones.EtiologyAbout 95% of cholecystitis cases are calculous, caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct, leading to bile accumulation and inflammation of the gallbladder...
Secondary Lymphoid Organs01:15

Secondary Lymphoid Organs

Secondary organs, including lymph nodes, the spleen, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), work harmoniously to protect us from disease and infection.
The spleen is a vital organ in the lymphatic system, nestled in the upper left side of the abdomen. It is composed of two primary regions: the red pulp and the white pulp, each having distinct functions. The red pulp performs a significant role in blood filtration. It efficiently purges the blood of old or damaged red blood cells and...