Peg-Interferon Alfa 2-b Related Cellulitis in a 40 Years Man

Abstract

Background: Pegylated interferon and ribavirin are currently one of the accepted treatment for chronic Hepatitis C. Dermatologic complications of interferon have been reported, but to date a few cases of bacterial cellulitis; a rare and severe complication, have been published. Cellulitis is a common infectious process affecting the skin and subcutaneous tissues which results in significant morbidity and holds considerable healthcare costs. Cases Report : Herein, we report a case of chronic hepatitis C genotype 1a who was on medication since 8 weeks prior to developing leg cellulitis, an uncommon pegylated interferon injection site. Considering no other possible risk factors were found to be in favor of bacterial cellulitis, our case is unique in its kind. Some reports reveal necrotizing vasculitis as basis for cutaneous lesions, which could be due to the high concentrations of drug at the injection site, a toxic effect of the diluents, or an immunological reaction. C onclusion: According to the latter mechanism patients could develop bacterial cellulitis in their different organs. Conclusively, we propose the hypothesis of a possible association between cellulitis to occur at any site as the complication of pegylated interferon Alfa 2b and would highlight the role of a careful skin examination that could be an asset in preventing local skin infections.