Predictors of Treatment Response in Hepatitis C Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Idrees Muhammad, Riazuddin Sheikh
Primary Institution: National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab
Hypothesis
The study aims to identify factors associated with sustained virological response (SVR) in chronic hepatitis C patients treated with interferon alpha and ribavirin.
Conclusion
The best predictors for sustained virological response in chronic hepatitis C patients are rapid virologic response, HCV genotypes 2 and 3, age under 40, and ethnic group Pashtoon.
Supporting Evidence
- 67% of patients showed end of treatment response.
- 50.5% achieved sustained virological response.
- Rapid virologic response was seen in 46.5% of patients.
- Patients with HCV genotype 2 had the highest SVR rates.
Takeaway
This study found that certain factors can help predict how well hepatitis C treatment will work, especially in younger patients and those with specific virus types.
Methodology
A retrospective review of 731 patients was conducted, with 400 patients treated and followed for treatment response.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the retrospective nature of the study and the exclusion of patients with certain conditions.
Limitations
The study was limited to patients from specific regions in Pakistan and may not be generalizable to other populations.
Participant Demographics
The study included 400 patients, 280 males and 120 females, with a mean age of 38 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.9–3.7
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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