comparative efficacy of combined treatment with intron a and pegintron in combination with ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis С

Aim. To investigate the efficacy of combined therapy of patients with chronic hepatitis С (СНС) including intron A, pegintron (preparations of alpha-2b interferon) and ribavirin, and evaluation of the above treatment side effects. Material and methods. 47 СП С patients (38 males and 9 females) were divided into two groups. 22 patients of group 1 received intron A and ribavirin, 25 patients of group 2 were given pegintron and ribavirin for 6-12 months. The examination made before the treatment, during the treatment and after it included clinical, biochemical, virusological blood tests, tests for autoantibodies, thyroid hormones, ultrasound investigation. Results. The response in group 1 was 55%, in group 2 - 72.7%. In group 2, CNS and skin side effects occurred more frequently. After the treatment side effects regressed in 95.8% patients. Conclusion. The pilot experience in Russia confirmed the findings of the foreign investigators on higher efficacy of combined treatment with pegilized interferons (pegintron) and ribavirin vs combination of intron A with ribavirin. It is shown that side effects of the above treatment can be corrected in outpatient medication.