IL28B gene polymorphisms in mono- and HIV-coinfected chronic hepatitis C patients.

Introduction: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) clearance were identified near the IL28B gene. Coinfection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) influences the course of HCV contributing to liver damage. Nevertheless, little is known about the relationship between these SNPs and HCV/HIV coinfection.

Ophthalmologic findings in hepatitis C patients treated with pegylated interferon α-2b and ribavirin.

Purpose: To identify the effect of pegylated interferon ƒ¿-2b and ribavirin treatment in the ocular fundus examination, visual acuity, and visual field.

Methods: Prospective observational study was performed at the Hepatology Clinic of Sao Jose Regional Hospital and at the Vitreoretinal Department at the Sadalla Amin Ghanem Eye Hospital in patients with chronic hepatitis C before and during treatment with pegylated interferon ƒ¿-2b together with ribavirin.

Results: Six (37.

Interleukin 28B-related polymorphisms: a pathway for understanding hepatitis C virus infection?

Aim: To analyze the role of rs12979860 and rs8099917 polymorphisms in hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 infection of Brazilians.

Methods: A total of 145 adult patients diagnosed with genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C (CHC) who had completed a 48-wk regimen of pegylated-interferon α-2a or -2b plus ribavirin combination therapy were recruited from six large urban healthcare centers and 199 healthy blood donors (controls) from a single site between January 2010 and January 2012. Data on the patients' response to treatment was collected.

A straightforward genotyping of the relevant IL28B SNPs for the prediction of hepatitis C treatment outcome.

A sustained virological response is not achieved by a significant proportion of chronic hepatitis C patients treated with interferon-based regimens. Due to the associated side effects and high costs, therapy response markers have been thoroughly sought. Two Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), rs12979860 and rs8099917, which are located upstream from the IL28B gene, have been remarkably described to have a strong association with treatment efficacy.