Uncommon immune-mediated extrahepatic manifestations of HCV infection.

Uncommon immune-mediated extrahepatic manifestations of HCV infection. Expert Rev Clin Immunol. 2018 Oct 19;: Authors: Romano C, Cuomo G, Ferrara R, Del Mastro A, Esposito S, Sellitto A, Adinolfi LE Abstract INTRODUCTION: Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been associated with myriad extrahepatic manifestations, often resulting from aberrant immune responses. Among the most common immune-mediated manifestations of HCV infection, mixed cryoglobulinemia is the best known extra-hepatic complication. Areas covered: Here we review less common extrahepatic manifestations of HCV infection, with ascertained or presumed immune pathogenesis and the role of the new all oral direct-acting antiviral agents. Rheumatologic, dermatologic, ophthalmologic, renal, pulmonary, hematologic, cardiovascular and neuropsychiatric manifestations of HCV infection have been considered. Expert commentary: Pathogenesis of HCV-induced aberrant immune responses resulting in peculiar clinical manifestations is not restricted to a single mechanism. A sound approach would therefore consider implementation of an etiologic treatment, through use of antiviral medications, to stop upstream in the pathogenic process all the immune mechanisms leading to hepatic and extrahepatic abnormalities. With the recent introduction of interferon-free, direct antiviral agents, capable of warranting cure for nearly all HCV-infected patients subjected to therapy, both common an...
Source: Expert Review of Clinical Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Tags: Expert Rev Clin Immunol Source Type: research