Abstract
Objective: The combination of pegylated interferon-α (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin has become a mainstay in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C (CHC). We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of this treatment in patients with CHC, while considering new approaches. Methods: A total of 323 patients with CHC underwent PEG-IFN and ribavirin combination treatment from the 3 centers (2 in Ordu and 1 in Samsun provinces) in Middle Black Sea region between the years of 2003-2013. Results: Of the patients, 208 (67%) were female and had a mean age 54 ± 10 years (median: 54; 19-70). Genotyping was performed in 163 patients, and 161 patients (98.8%) revealed genotype 1. Sustained virologic response (SVR) and the end of treatment response rates ere 58.3% and 75.6%, respectively. In patients with rapid virological response, the SVR rate was 85.1%, whereas in patients with a HCV RNA level less than 800,000 IU/ml, the SVR rate was 71.2%. The SVR rates were found to be higher in patients who developed hypothyroidism, which was statistically significant (p = 0.03). The most frequent side effect was anemia, followed by thrombocytopenia, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Conclusion: Presently, PEG-IFN/ribavirin is still an option in the treatment of certain patient populations even after the consideration of newer treatment methods. J Microbiol Infect Dis 2015;5(4): 151-155 Key words: Pegylated interferon, ribavirin, therapy, hepatitis C
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