Frequency of Thyroid Dysfunction Following Interferon Therapy in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the frequency of thyroid dysfunction following interferon therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Study design: Prospective Study Place and duration: This study was conducted at Medical OPD, Chandka Medical College Hospital Larkana from September 2008 to January 2010. Material and methods: Fifty cases of chronic hepatitis C, proven by anti-HCV and HCV RNA positive with baseline TSH, T3, T4 within the normal reference range, who were treated with interferon alfa 3 millions units S/C three times in week and oral ribavirin were included in this study. All patients were assessed for TSH, T3, T4 at 2, 4, 6 months during therapy. Results: Out of 50 patients, thyroid dysfunction developed in 5 (10%) patients. Out of 5 patients 4 (80%) had hypothyroidism and 1 (10%) patient hyperthyroidism. Males are more affected. HCV RNA became negative in 45 patients, while in 5 patients remained positive. Mean age of presentation is 36.9 +/- 10.9. Conclusion: Screening of T3, T4, TSH is recommended before and during treatment and patients should be informed of the risk of thyroid dysfunction. Treatment of HCV can be continued safely because thyroid dysfunction responds well to treatment.