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

Purpose: To identify the effect of pegylated interferon alpha-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 alpha-2b together with ribavirin. Results: Six (37.5%) of 16 patients developed retinopathy during the treatment, two of which (12.5%) presented retinal hemorrhage, and four patients (6 eyes) presented cotton-wool spots (25%) that regressed during the treatment. One patient (6.25%) presented transient decrease in visual acuity during the treatment and recovered spontaneously without specific therapy. Conclusion: Recommended treatment methods for hepatitis C may cause transient retinopathy, commonly without any damage to visual function in most patients. Although ocular involvement is rare, follow-up with an ophthalmologist is recommended during the course of the hepatitis C medication.