Pegylated Interferon Associated Retinopathy in Chronic Hepatitis Patients

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate clinical features of pegylated interferon‐associated retinopathy in chronic hepatitis patients. Methods: The present study was a consecutive case series of 46 patients who were treated with pegylated interferon for chronic hepatitis C or B from October 2007 to September 2008 in our hospital. The patients had a regular ophthalmologic examination every 3 weeks for 6 months after treatment. Results: Out of 46 patients, 10 patients (21.73%) developed retinal abnormality. Pegylated interferon‐associated retinopathy occurred at 7.2510.28 weeks after the treatment with cotton‐wool spots and retinal hemorrhage. All cases except one mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy case presenting broad perimacular non‐perfusion recovered without cessation of the treatment. Conclusions: Pegylated interferon‐associated retinopathy in chronic hepatitis patients was reversible and had a recovery without visual complication. However, a single case did present with irreversible visual impairment. Pegylated interferon‐associated retinopathy is usually asymptomatic and clinicians should observe patients closely for 3 months after treatment.