Pegylated interferon-alpha2b plus ribavirin: an efficacious and well-tolerated treatment regimen for patients with hepatitis C virus related histologically proven cirrhosis.

摘要: BACKGROUND Little is known about the efficacy, safety and tolerability of pegylated interferon plus ribavirin treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis Cvirus (HCV) infection histologically proven fully established cirrhosis. We aimed here to evaluate this regimen such identify baseline on-treatment predictors a sustained virological response (SVR). METHODS Patients proven, HCV-induced cirrhosis were randomized receive interferon-alpha2b (PEG-IFN-alpha2b; 1.0 microg/kg/week, n=56; group A) or recombinant (IFN-alpha2b; 3 million IU three times/week, n=36; B), each combination weight-based dose (800-1,200 mg/day) for up 48 weeks. The primary endpoint study was assessment SVR, defined as undetectable HCV RNA 24 weeks after cessation. RESULTS Overall, 40% (37/93) attained SVR: 44% (25/57) A 33% (12/36) B (P=0.31). SVR rates significantly higher genotype 2/3 than 1 (69% versus 25%; P<0.0001). Platelet count at baseline, rapid response, early SVR. Twelve discontinued because an adverse event 20 required reduction management anaemia. CONCLUSIONS PEG-IFN-alpha2b efficacious well-tolerated Although more satisfactory patients, our identified additional that could allow physicians better manage 'difficult-to-cure' subset patients.