A survey of patterns of practice and perception of NAFLD in a large sample of practicing gastroenterologists in France.

Background & Aims: Most studies on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) originate from tertiary care centers with an academic interest. How this emerging entity is accepted and managed by a wider body of gastroenterologists is unknown, despite significant implications for the diagnosis of at-risk subjects and the utilization of healthcare resources.

Methods: We conducted a survey among 352 French, board-certified gastroenterologists from a large variety of practices to understand the clinical burden, perceived severity, and management patterns of NAFLD.

Safety and efficacy of combination therapy with peginterferon alfa-2a (40kD) and ribavirin in the outpatient setting: prospective analysis of 197 patients with chronic hepatitis C viral infection.

Objectives: Combination therapy using peginterferon alfa-2a (40 kD) plus ribavirin achieves viral eradication in nearly 60% of patients with chronic hepatitis C viral infection. However, because of the numerous side effects, use of the combination regimen might be restricted for patients consulting private practitioners specialized in hepatogastroenterology.

Patients And Method: Conducted in this specific context, this prospective clinical trial investigated the safety and efficacy of combination therapy in 197 patients.