Interferon Alfa-2b Alone or in Combination with Ribavirin as Initial Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C

Chronic hepatitis C infection is now recognized as an important health care problem. 1 Nearly 4 million Americans are estimated to be infected, and cirrhosis will eventually develop in at least 15 to 20 percent of them. 2 – 5 In the United States, infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease and the most common indication for liver transplantation. 1 , 6 Until recently, interferon alfa was the only therapy available for patients with chronic hepatitis C. However, after 48 weeks of treatment, serum HCV RNA levels are undetectable in only 15 to 20 percent of patients. 7 – . . .