Iron and hepatitis C

Abstract

Serum iron markers are often elevated in hepatitis C virus infection, particularly in African-American persons, although the clinical significance of this finding remains unclear. Although hepatic iron is usually only mildly elevated in hepatitis C virus, iron overload is associated with more advanced disease, nonresponse to interferon monotherapy, and increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Iron status does not predict response to interferon and ribavirin combination therapy. Most studies indicate that HFE mutations are associated with increased iron stores and advanced fibrosis. Iron depletion therapy may delay disease progression.