Outcomes of and Challenges to Management of Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Author(s)
Dana B. Al-Sharqi, Sanad J. Sanad
Abstract
Background:
Treatment of hepatitis C (HCV) infection is becoming more achievable due to increased accessibility to direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs).
Objective:
To evaluate the outcomes of the management of HCV-infected patients. Success is defined as the achievement of a sustained virologic response (SVR).
Design:
A Single-Center Retrospective Study.
Setting:
Bahrain Defence Force Hospital, Bahrain.
Method:
Sixty-six patients on DAA therapy for HCV infection were evaluated for SVR achievement, side-effects, and cirrhosis. The characteristics of responders and non-responders to therapy were documented.
Result:
Sixty-three (95.5%) patients were treated successfully with DAAs. Three were identified as treatment failure, one due to non-compliance, and two cases had advanced cirrhosis. Three patients reported treatment side-effects, although this did not prevent the completion of therapy. Despite treatment, 18 (27%) patients had cirrhosis upon follow-up.
Conclusion:
Most patients in Bahrain have HCV genotype 1, and the management of these patients has excellent outcomes, the vast majority achieving SVR. A small number of treatment failures were associated with the presence of cirrhosis and non-compliance. Further study, on a national scale, in multiple centers, is required to evaluate the extent of chronic HCV infection.
Bahrain Medical Bulletin
Bahrain Med Bull 2020; 42 (2): 110 – 112
Available on: https://www.bahrainmedicalbulletin.com/JUNE_2020/JUNE2020_ABSTRACT/JUNE2020_ABSTRACT_OUTCOMES.pdf