ISSN:
1432-1440
Keywords:
Human immunodeficiency virus
;
Hepatitis B virus
;
Interferon-α
;
Corticosteroid
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract A 48-year-old male patient was admitted with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (stage III, Centers for Disease Control 1993) and viremic hepatitis B. Blood CD4 count was 15/μl. Discontinuation of prednisolone, previously prescribed by the patient's family practitioner because of elevated liver enzymes, resulted in severe hepatitis (alanine aminotransferase 〉 300U/1). Administration of interferon-α, (9 × 106U s.c. 3 × weekly) was initiated. Serum markers of viral replication disappeared, and aminotransferase levels returned to normal within a few weeks. The patient's serum was found negative for HBsAg after 3 months. Immunohistochemical analysis of liver biopsies before and during interferon therapy showed disappearance of all hepatitis B virus antigens and a marked reduction in inflammatory activity. Hepatitis B virus seroconversion remained stable until the patient died from the syndrome 2 years later. This case shows that in spite of severe HIV-associated immune deficiency with CD4 counts constantly below 100/μl, interferon-α can lead to sustained serological and histological improvement of viremic hepatitis B. Previous administration and discontinuation of cortisone may have helped to reach this effect.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00577750
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