Hematologic disorders associated with hepatitis C virus infection and their management

Douglas T. Dieterich, Jerry L. Spivak

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

91 Scopus citations

Abstract

More than 4 million people in the United States are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). During the next 20-30 years, the burden of HCV-related mortality and morbidity will likely double. To date, the most effective treatment for chronic HCV infection is the combination of either interferon (IFN)-α or pegylated IFN-α and ribavirin. For a sustained virologic response, treatment adherence and dose maintenance are essential. However, both IFN-α and ribavirin induce hematologic toxicity, such as anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia, which can compromise treatment adherence and dose maintenance and could, therefore, potentially influence outcomes. Although there are currently no approved treatments for hematologic complications of HCV therapy, studies have shown that hematopoietic growth factors can provide significant benefits. This review highlights the pharmacology, risks, and benefits of recombinant hematopoietic growth factor therapy in HCV-infected patients.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)533-541
Number of pages9
JournalClinical Infectious Diseases
Volume37
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 15 Aug 2003

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