Retinopathy in Hepatitis C Patients Due to Combination Therapy with Pegylated Interferon and Ribavirin

Overview

Journal Jpn J Ophthalmol

Specialty Ophthalmology

Date 2009 Dec 19

PMID 20020238

Citations 11

Authors

Ei Tae Kim

Lee Hoo Kim

Jung Il Lee

Hee Seung Chin

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: To assess the nature, incidence, and risk factors of retinopathy associated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin combination therapy in chronic hepatitis C patients.

Methods: Thirty-two patients with chronic hepatitis C were examined prospectively for changes in fundus findings while they were being treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. Patients were followed with sequential ocular examinations for a maximum of 36 weeks.

Results: Eleven of the 32 patients (34.4%) developed retinopathy. Cotton-wool spots were found in six patients, retinal hemorrhages in four, and branch retinal vein occlusion in one (one eye). Hypertension was found to be the most significant risk factor for developing retinopathy.

Conclusion: Significant ocular complications such as an irreversible decrease of visual acuity may develop in patients treated with pegylated interferon. The valid risk factor for developing retinopathy is hypertension. The high rate of retinopathy in patients with hypertension suggests that patients should be carefully monitored.

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