Ribavirin free direct-acting antivirals in adolescents with hepatitis C and thalassemia
Keywords:
Thalassemia, HCV, DAAs, Blood Transfusion, Daclatasavir, SofosbuvirAbstract
Background: Recently introduced antivirals (ribavirin free direct-acting antivirals) are now recommended in pediatric age group above 12 years of age but are not yet extensively studied in thalassemic patients with hepatitis C infection. This study aims to study the safety and efficacy of newer ribavirin-free direct acting antivirals in thalassemic children with hepatitis C.
Patients and Methods: All thalassemic patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection fulfilling the inclusion criteria were recruited consecutively. Ribavirin free direct-acting antivirals (DAA) were started according to genotypes. Virological response was assessed at baseline, four, twelve and twenty-four weeks. Data regarding safety and efficacy of DAA in these children were collected and analyzed by SPSS.
Results: Twenty-one patients met the criteria for enrolment in the study. Sustained virological response (SVR) was seen in all patients (100%) at 24 weeks. Regarding adverse events in patients receiving daclatasavir plus sofosbuvir, nausea was seen in 33% followed by increased blood transfusion requirements in 22%, fatigue in 16%, headache in 11% and pancytopenia in one patient (5%). Patients receiving velpatasavir and sofosbuvir therapy, none of side effects were noted.
Conclusion: Ribavirin free DAAs are highly effective in thalassemic patients with hepatitis C and minimal adverse effects are observed especially in children receiving daclatasavir and sofosbuvir.
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
The Journal of Fatima Jinnah Medical University follows the Attribution Creative Commons-Non commercial (CC BY-NC) license which allows the users to copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format, remix, transform and build upon the material. The users must give credit to the source and indicate, provide a link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. However, the CC By-NC license restricts the use of material for commercial purposes. For further details about the license please check the Creative Commons website. The editorial board of JFJMU strives hard for the authenticity and accuracy of the material published in the journal. However, findings and statements are views of the authors and do not necessarily represent views of the Editorial Board.
