Chronic hepatitis C viral infection in patients with normal serum alanine aminotransferases

摘要: A substantial proportion of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection (HCV RNA positive) have persistently normal serum alanine aminotransferases (ALT). These currently pose a therapeutic dilemma, as it is not clear how best to deal them. Response rates interferon are low, and in some cases therapy has been associated an increase aminotransferases. Therefore, the NIH Consensus Conference recommended against treating them interferon. Although most ALT levels mild disease on liver biopsy, consensus panel did think appropriate do biopsies these subjects. Few data available combination ribavirin for such patients. At Saint Louis University, 24 were treated interferon/ribavirin. Preliminary analysis results shows that 33% had sustained response weeks after therapy. Thus, uncertainties remain about HCV therapies. However, if more effective better tolerated become available, might be eliminate viral infection.