Carcinoma epidermoide de piel tratado con HeberFERON®

RESUMEN Introducción: en la literatura biomédica son escasos los reportes sobre el uso de los interferones como tratamiento en el carcinoma epidermoide. En una unidad de atención primaria, en Colón, Matanzas, se implementó el HeberFERON® en este tipo de tumor, con experiencias favorables. Objetivo: describir la efectividad del HeberFERON® en el carcinoma epidermoide. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo en 33 lesiones de carcinoma epidermoide en 29 pacientes. La dosis fue de 7,0 y 10,5 MUI de actividad antiviral, infiltrada de forma perilesional tres veces por semana durante tres semanas. Se realizó el seguimiento clínico de los pacientes antes del tratamiento y a las 16 semanas del inicio del mismo. Las variables fueron: edad, sexo, fototipo de piel, procedencia, localización, tipo clínico, estadio y respuesta clínica al tratamiento. Se consideraron cuatro categorías de respuesta: completa, parcial, enfermedad estable y progresiva. Se incluyó la respuesta objetiva (completa más parcial). Se recogieron los datos en una historia clínica. Se utilizaron los programas Microsoft Excel y SPSS para el procesamiento estadístico. Resultados: el 65,5 % de los pacientes correspondió al sexo masculino. Un 58,6 % son fototipo II y de procedencia urbana. Predominaron las edades entre 61 y 80 años (55,2 %). Hubo respuesta objetiva en 57,6 % (cinco completas y 14 parciales). Las mejores respuestas la mostraron el carcinoma epidermoide queratósico superficial y el noduloulceroso. Conclusiones: la mezcla de interferones fue efectiva en el carcinoma epidermoide en todos los subtipos clínicos, aunque los autores sugieren un segundo ciclo de HeberFERON® o asociarlo con quimioterapia cuando la respuesta no sea completa.

ABSTRACT Introduction: there are few reports in the literature on the use of interferon in the treatment of the squamous cell carcinoma. In a primary care unit in Colon, Matanzas, HeberFERON® was implemented in this type of tumor with favorable experiences. Objective: to describe the effectiveness of HeberFERON® in epidermoid carcinoma. Materials and methods: an observational, descriptive study was conducted in 33 epidermoid carcinoma lesions in 29 patients. The doses were 7.0 and 10.5 MUI of antiviral activity, perilesionally infiltrated three times a week for three weeks. Clinical follow-up of patients was performed before the treatment and at 16 weeks from the beginning of the treatment. The variables were: age, sex, skin phototype, origin; location, clinical type, stage and clinical response to treatment. Four categories of response were considered: complete, partial, stable and progressive disease. The objective response (complete plus partial) was included. Data were collected in a clinical record. The Microsoft Excel and SPSS programs were used for statistical processing. Results: 65.5 % of patients were male. 58.6 % are phototype II and of urban origin. Ages ranging from 61 to 80 years (55.2 %) predominated. There was objective response in 57.6 % (five complete and 14 partials). The superficial keratotic squamous cell carcinoma and the nodular ulcerative one showed the best responses. Conclusions: interferon mixing was effective in all clinical subtypes of epidermoid carcinoma, although the authors suggest a second cycle of HeberFERON® or to associate it with chemotherapy when the response is not complete.

Observation of the effect of oxymatrine combined with interferon alpha-2b in the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B / 中国基层医药

Objective To investigate the clinical value of oxymatrine combined with interferon alpha -2b in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B.Methods From January 2014 to January 2017,Ninety patients with chronic hepatitis B in the Third People's Hospital of Linfen were divided into observation group and control group according to the random number table method ,with 45 cases in each group.The control group was treated with recombinant human interferon alpha-2b,intramuscular injection of 5 million IU,1 time/d,and on the basis of the control group,the observation group was treated with oxymatrine injection 500 mg+0.9%sodium chloride injection 250mL,intravenous infusion of normal saline,1 time/d,the treatment cycle was 6 months.The changes of liver function ,HBV-DNA negative rate and liver fibrosis indicators were compared between the two groups before and after treatment .Results After treatment,the liver function indicators of the observation group and the control group [ALT(45.2 ±8.3)IU/L, (68.4 ±9.5)IU/L;AST(42.6 ±7.2)IU/L,(63.7 ±9.3)IU/L]were significantly decreased,which of the observation group were significantly lower than those of the control group , the differences were statistically significant ( t ＝11.678,10.186,all P＜0.05).The negative rate of HBV -DNA in the observation group (82.2%) was significantly higher than that in the control group(60.0%),the difference was statistically significant(χ2＝5.409,P＜0.05).After treatment,the levels of Ⅳ-C[(57.7 ±10.6)ng/L,(132.2 ±47.6)ng/L],LN[(103.1 ±33.1)ng/L,(162.5 ± 57.9)ng/L]and HA[(158.7 ±59.2)ng/L,(263.4 ±97.9)ng/L]of the observation group and the control group were significantly decreased ,which of the observation group were significantly lower than those of the control group , the differences were statistically significant (t ＝9.899,5.971,5.856,all P ＜0.05).Conclusion Oxymatrine injection combined with interferon alpha -2b in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B can significantly improve liver function,improve the negative rate of virus and liver fibrosis.

Clearance of HBsAg in patients with chronic hepatitis B treated by entecavir plus Peg IFNα-2b following initial entecavir monotherapy / 中华临床感染病杂志

Objective To analyze the efficacy of entecavir (ETV) combined with Peg IFNα-2b in chronic hepatitis B ( CHB) patients with low levels HBsAg following initial ETV treatment.Methods Sixty-nine CHB outpatients achieving serum HBsAg ＜2 000 IU/mL and HBV DNA＜100 IU/mL following initial ETV treatment in Pujiang People's Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine from January 2014 to January 2016 were enrolled.Patients were randomly assigned in two groups: 39 patients in combination group received ETV (0.5 mg/d ) and Peg IFNα-2b (1.5 μg· kg－1· week －1, hypodermic injection), and 30 patients in ETV group received ETV (0.5 mg/d) alone.Serum HBsAg quantification, negative conversion rate of HBsAg and HBeAg , and levels of aminotransferase (ALT) were measured at baseline , 12th, 24th, 48th, 72th and 96th week after treatment.Results The levels of HBsAg in the combination group decreased gradually with the prolongation of therapy , which were lower than those in ETV group 24 week after treatment (Z＝－2.566,P＜0.05),and at 48th, 72th and 96th week (Z＝－3.499,－3.825 and －3.864,P＜0.01).Clearance of HBsAg appeared in the combination group at 24th week,the clearance rates were 7.70%(3/39) and 28.20%(11/39) at 24th and 96th week, respectively;while the clearance of HBsAg occurred in ETV group at 96th week, the clearance rate was only 3.30%(1/30).The negative conversion rates of HBsAg in combination group were higher than those in ETV group at 48th,72th and 96th week (P＜0.05 or＜0.01).In the combination group, there were 11 cases of clinical cure , 11 cases of clinical efficacy and 17 cases of clinical effectiveness , while there were 1, 1 and 28 cases in ETV group,respectively.The treatment effect of the combination group was better than that of ETV group(χ2＝18.496,P＜0.01).Serological conversion rates of HBeAg were 30.00%(6/20) and 65.00%(13/20) in combination group at 12th and 96th week, while those were 11.11%(2/18) and 22.22%(4/18) in ETV group at 48th and 96th week.There were significant differences in the HBeAg serological conversion rates at 12th, 24th, 72th and 96th week between two groups (P＜0.05 or ＜0.01). The levels of ALT in combination group increased at 12th and 24th week, which had significant difference compared with ETV group (Z＝－1.236 and －2.658,P＜0.05), and the ALT levels gradually declined 48 week after treatment in combination group and there were no statistical differences between two groups at other time points.The ETV combined with Peg IFNα-2b and low baseline HBeAg levels were associated with the clearance rate of HBsAg (both P＜0.01).Conclusions CHB patients with low HBsAg levels following initial ETV monotherapy can achieve high negative conversion rate of HBeAg and HBsAg with the combination treatment of ETV and Peg IFN α-2b.

Interferon alfa‑2b in the management of recurrent conjunctival papillomatosis.

A 2‑year‑old boy presented with a recurrent strawberry‑like reddish mass arising from the left caruncular region for 8 months. An incisional biopsy was performed elsewhere 2 months earlier, followed by an increase in size of mass, significant epiphora, and intermittent bleeding. On examination, exuberant exophytic gelatinous mass with multifocal origin was observed arising from inferior forniceal conjunctiva and caruncle. Clinical differential of multifocal conjunctival papilloma was kept, and topical interferon alfa‑2b (INFα‑2b) was started. No clinical reduction in mass or symptomatology was observed over 6 weeks. Excision biopsy with cryotherapy and subconjunctival injection of INFα‑2b was performed over all foci. Conjunctival papilloma was confirmed on histopathology, and topical INFα‑2b was continued in postoperative period for 3 months. At 14 months of follow‑up, no recurrence, epiphora, or bleeding was noticed. We advocate a possible role of local INF therapy in managing and preventing recurrences of conjunctival papillomatosis.

Clinical Features and Surgical Treatment Outcomes of Conjunctival Squamous Papilloma

PURPOSE: To investigate the clinical features, surgical treatments, and their outcomes in conjunctival squamous papilloma. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted on 31 patients with 32 eyes that were treated for conjunctival papilloma from October 2000 to February 2015 in Seoul National University Hospital and Seoul National University Bundang Hospital. RESULTS: Among the 31 patients, 9 patients had papilloma which recurred after previous surgical excision at another hospital. Twenty-five eyes had one papilloma lesion, 2 eyes had 2 lesions, and 5 eyes had more than 3 lesions. The most affected location of papilloma was the tarsal conjunctiva. The recurrent group displayed a tendency to have multiple lesions. Surgical excision without any adjuvant therapy was performed in 13 eyes; surgical excision and cryotherapy in 15 eyes; surgical excision, cryotherapy, and topical interferon alfa-2b in 3 eyes; and surgical excision and amniotic membrane transplantation in 1 eye. The mean postoperative follow up period was 11.1 months. There were 5 cases of recurrence and the mean time of recurrence after surgical excision was 4.22 months (range, 3 days to 9 months). Among 5 cases of recurrence, 3 cases were after surgical excision only, 1 case was after surgical excision and cryotherapy, and 1 case was after surgical excision, cryotherapy, and topical interferon alfa-2b. These 5 recurred cases were retreated with surgical excision and cryotherapy, surgical excision and topical interferon alfa-2b, or surgical excision, cryotherapy, and topical interferon alfa-2b. CONCLUSIONS: Conjunctival squamous papilloma is likely to recur even though the tumor is completely removed. Therefore, long-term postoperative follow up may be necessary for recurrence.

Efficacy of adefovir dipivoxil combined with interferon α-2b in treatment of chronic hepatitis B patients / 中国医师杂志

Objective To investigate clinical efficacy of adefovir dipivoxil (ADV) combined with interferon α-2b in treatment of chronic hepatitis B.Methods During Jan 2008 to Dec 2014,ninety patients with chronic hepatitis B were divided into adefovir dipivoxil group (33 cases),interferon group (28 cases),and adefovir dipivoxil combined with interferon α-2b group (29 cases).Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) normalization rate,negative rate of HBV-DNA,and HBeAg/anti-HBe seroconversion rates were evaluated among three groups.Results After 48 weeks of treatment,HBeAg negative rate,HBV-DNA negative rate,and ALT normalization rate of combination group were significantly higher than that of interferons αt-2b group and adefovir dipivoxil group (P ＜ 0.05).Conclusions Adefovir dipivoxil combined with interferon α-2b treatment can inhibit the hepatitis B virus,increase the negative rate of HBV-DNA and HBeAg,and reduce liver cell damage.

Effects of IFN combined with adefovir dipivoxil in the treatment of patients with hepatitis B and hepatitis C overlapping infection / 中国基层医药

Objective To explore the clinical effect of IFN combined with adefovir dipivoxil in the treatment of patients with the hepatitis B and hepatitis C overlapping infection.Methods 90 cases of hepatitis B overlapping infection of hepatitis C were divided into control group(n =43) and treatment group(n =47).The control group was treated with IFN,the treatment group was treated with IFN and adefovir dipivoxil.Results The treatment group was better than the control group in the liver function,HBV DNA,HCV RNA.At the 24th weeks,the negative rates of HBV DNA and HCV RNA in the control group were 14 (32.6%) and 18 (41.9%),while there were were 38 (80.9%) and 34(72.3%) in the treatment group.There was significant differences between the two groups(x2 =6.43,5.28,all P ＜ 0.05).Conclusion The clinical efficacy of IFN combined with adefovir dipivoxil for the hepatitis B and hepatitis C overlapping infection patients was significant better than IFN,which is worthy of clinical application.

Investigation of antiviral efficacy in patients with chronic hepatitis C originating from a same blood donor in Guizhou Province / 中华传染病杂志

Objective To investigate the antiviral efficacy of standard treatment with interferon (IFN)-α 2b and ribavirin (RBV) in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) originating from a same blood donor.Methods The test group consisted of 65 CHC patients originating from a same blood donor,and was treated with IFN-α 2b 3-5 MU every other day in combination with RBV 0.6-1.0 g/d.Meantime,the control group consisted of 32 CHC patients who visited the Department of Infectious Diseases in Qiannan People's Hospital,and was treated with Peg-interferon (PEG-IFN)-α 2a 180 μg every week in combination with RBV 0.6-1.0 g/d.All the patients in the two groups were treated for 48 weeks and followed up for 96 weeks.Assessment indictors included sustained virological response (SVR),early virological response (EVR),end of treatment virological response (ETVR),biochemical response after withdrawal of treatment.Side effects during treatment were also evaluated.Measurement data were analyzed by x2 test.Results In test group,SVR rate was 83.1％ (54/65),EVR rate was 93.8％ (61/65),ETVR rate was 86.2％ (56/65) and biochemical response rate after withdrawal of treatment was 100.0％.In control group,SVR rate was 87.5％ (28/32),EVR rate was 96.9 ％ (31/32),ETVR rate was 90.6 ％ (29/32) and biochemical response rate after withdrawal of treatment was 100.0 ％.SVR rates of the two groups were not significantly different (x2 =0.072,P=0.086).Patients of the two groups were divided into two subgroups according to viral load:hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA＜1.0 × 106 copy/mL and HCV RNA≥1.0 × 106 copy/mL.SVR rates of patients with low and high viral load in test group were 88.9％ and 54.5％,respectively (x2=7.67,P=0.008),those in control group were 96.0％ and 57.1％,respectively (x2 =4.41,P=0.038).SVR rates were higher in the subgroup of patients with low viral load.Leukopenia and thrombocytopenia were more common in control group than in test group (x2 =9.805,P =0.003 ; x2 =6.643,P=0.009).Conclusion IFN-α 2b and RBV combination therapy has similar antiviral efficacy to that of PEG-IFN-α 2a and RBV combination therapy,and has a lower rate of side effects as well.

Effect of combining loop electrosurgical excision procedure and recombinant human interferon α2b suppository in treatment of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia / 中国基层医药

Objective To study the effect of combining loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) and recombinant human interferon α2b (rhIFNα-2b) suppository in treatment of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).Methods Prospective,random and control study was conducted in 82 patients with CINⅠ-CINⅢ.Before canting out LEEP to these patients,all women were performed HPV DNA detection by the method of Hybri Max.Among these patients,41 patients were assigned to the studying group,in which the patients were given rhIFNα-2b suppository for three courses of treatment after LEEP.The other 41 patients who carried out LEEP simply were assigned to the control group.Liquid-based ThinPrep cytology test (TCT) and HPV DNA were examined in the sixth and twelfth month after treatment.Results In the studying group,the cure rate was 90.2％ when LEEP ended six months,and the cure rate was 100.0％ when LEEP ended twelve months.In the control group,the cure rate was 43.9％ when LEEP ended six months,and the cure rate was 61.0％ when LEEP ended twelve months.In the sixth and twelfth month after LEEP,the difference was significant when we compared the cure rate between the two groups (x2 =19.93,19.89,all P ＜ 0.05).Conclusion The clinical effect of combining LEEP and rhIFNα-2b suppository is better than LEEP in treatment of CIN.The method can remove or destroy the cervical lesions effectively and inhibit HPV replication and spread of HPV infection.

Efeitos colaterais do tratamento da hepatite C no polo aplicador do ABC / Side effects of the hepatitis C treatment at the ABC application center

OBJETIVO: Analisar e comparar os efeitos colaterais do tratamento da hepatite C com interferon peguilado e ribavirina no Centro de Referência de Imunobiológicos Especiais (CRIE) do Hospital Mário Covas (Santo André), de 23/02/2011 a 05/05/2011. MÉTODOS: Estudo do tipo transversal, por questionário, com amostra não probabilística composta por 340 pacientes que receberam pelo menos uma dose da medicação. RESULTADOS: Os efeitos colaterais apresentados foram cansaço (82,9%), artralgia e/ou mialgia (76,8%), emagrecimento (71,8%), cefaleia (67,6%), desânimo (65,9%), depressão e/ou irritabilidade (64,4%), prurido (60,6%), febre (59,1%), alopecia (51,5%), tosse seca (34,1%), náuseas (11,7%), inapetência (11,7%) e tontura (7,9%). Foram relatados até 19 sintomas durante o tratamento. Apenas quatro pacientes (1,2%) não apresentaram efeitos colaterais. Ao comparar os interferons, observamos que o uso do alfa-2b causou uma média de 8,01 sintomas por paciente, enquanto o do alfa-2a foi responsável por uma média de 7,50. Os pacientes em uso do interferon alfa-2b apresentaram mais febre, emagrecimento, cefaleia, artralgia e/ou mialgia, cansaço, desânimo, depressão e/ou irritabilidade e tosse seca do que os pacientes em uso do alfa-2a, que, por sua vez, tiveram mais alopecia e prurido. CONCLUSÃO: O estudo mostra uma grande morbidade relacionada ao tratamento, já que apenas 1,2% dos pacientes não apresentaram efeitos colaterais. Na amostra, o interferon peguilado alfa-2b foi responsável por maior prevalência de febre e emagrecimento quando comparado ao alfa-2a, sendo essa relação estatisticamente significante (p < 0,05).

OBJECTIVE: To review and compare side effects of hepatitis C treatment with pegylated interferon and ribavirin at the CRIE of the Hospital Mário Covas (Santo André), São Paulo, Brazil, from February 23 to May 5, 2011. METHODS: Cross-sectional study through questionnaire, with a non-probability sample comprised of 340 patients that had received at least one dose of the medication. RESULTS: Side effects presented were fatigue (82.9%), arthralgia and/or myalgia (76.8%), weight loss (71.8%), headache (67.6%), listlessness (65.9%), depression and/or irritability (64.4%), itching (60.6%), fever (59.1%), alopecia (51.5%), dry cough (34.1%), nausea (11.7%), inappetence (11.7%), and dizziness (7.9%). Up to 19 symptoms were reported during treatment. Only four patients (1.2%) did not present side effects. When comparing the types of interferon, it was observed that alpha-2b caused an average of 8.01 symptoms per patient, while alpha-2a was responsible for an average of 7.50 symptoms. Patients using interferon alpha-2b showed more fever, weight loss, headache, arthralgia and/or myalgia, fatigue, listlessness, depression and/or irritability, and dry cough than patients using alpha-2a, who had more alopecia and itching. CONCLUSION: The study shows a high morbidity related to the treatment, as only 1.2% of the patients showed no side effects. In the sample, the pegylated interferon alpha-2b was responsible for higher prevalence of fever and weight loss when compared to alpha-2a, and this was a statistically significant relation (p < 0.05).

Quimioprofilaxis en la recidiva tumoral vesical / Chemoprophylaxis in the vesical tumoral recurrence

Los tumores vesicales superficiales se caracterizan por una alta tasa de recidiva, que ocurre especialmente dentro de los dos primeros años, y que es aun mayor en los grupos de alto riesgo. Existe consenso en la utilidad del uso del Bacilo de Calmette-Guerin para disminuir la recurrencia tumoral. La quimioterapia intravesical con otros medicamentos han demostrado su utilidad o no en disminuir la recurrencia de estos tumores vesicales. Entre los años 1999 y 2008 se estudian y tratan 110 pacientes (96 hombres y 14 mujeres), con una edad promedio de 63 años, divididos en tres grupos para tratamiento de la recidiva tumoral después de resección transuretral o cistectomía parcial, con tres diferentes agentes quimioprofilácticos e inmunomoduladores (Thio-Tepa, BCG+factor de transferencia, doxorrubicina+interferón alfa 2b). El objetivo de esta investigación fue presentar la experiencia en el tratamiento de estos pacientes, donde se observa mejores resultados en 5 años, con el grupo tratado con doxorrubicina+interferón alfa 2b, seguido del grupo tratado con BCG+factor de transferencia, con una marcada disminución de las recurrencias y una limitación en la progresión de la enfermedad a largo plazo.

The superficial bladder tumors are characterized by a high rate of recurrence taking place especially within the first two years that is even higher in the high risk groups. There is an agreement in the usefulness of the Calmette-Guerin Bacillus (CGB) to diminish the tumoral recurrence. The intravesical chemotherapy with other medications have demonstrated its profit or not in decreasing the recurrence of these bladder tumors. Between 1999 and 2008 we studied and treated 110 patients (96 men and 14 women), aged in average 63 years old. They were divided into three groups for the treatment of the tumoral recidivism after the transurethral resection or partial cystectomy, using three different chemoprophylactic agents and inmunomodulators (Thio-Tepa, BCG+Transference Factor, Doxorubicin +Interferon Alpha 2b). The objective of this research was presenting our experience in the treatment of these patients during five years, obtaining better results in the group treated with doxorubicin + interferon alpha 2b, followed by the group treated by means of BCG + transference factor, with a remarked decrease of the recurrence and a limitation in the long term progression of the disease.

Empleo del Interferón alfa 2b recombinante y ribavirina en la lesión hepática crónica producida por virus C en pacientes no respondedores a la monoterapia / Use of recombinant interferon alpha 2b and Ribavirin in chronic liver injury caused by C virus in patients not answering to monotherapy

Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo, de corte transversal, con el objetivo de describir los resultados y la tolerabilidad de la terapia combinada con interferón alfa 2b recombinante y ribavirina en el retratamiento de pacientes con lesión hepática crónica causada por el virus de la hepatitis C, se seleccionaron 17 pacientes atendidos en la consulta de Hepatología, del Servicio de Gastroenterología, del Hospital Provincial Docente Dr Antonio Luaces Iraola, que no respondieron a un primer tratamiento con interferón como monoterapia; los datos obtenidos fueron recogidos en la planilla de recolección de datos. Los pacientes con hepatitis crónica C eran mayoritariamente adultos jóvenes y de sexo masculino. Los grupos de población más afectados fueron los pacientes con una conducta sexual de riesgo o desprotegida, los pacientes con antecedentes de atención estomatológica, receptores de transfusiones y el personal sanitario. Se les aplicó una terapia combinada durante 52 semanas, un 58 por ciento de los pacientes estudiados resultaron negativos al final del tratamiento, el 94 por ciento normalizaron la alanino aminotransferasa, se observó una mejoría histológica respecto a la biopsia inicial en la mayoría de los casos, la reacción adversa más frecuente fue el síndrome seudogripal.

A descriptive observational study of cross-section, was conducted with the aim of describing the results and tolerability of combined therapy with recombinant interferon alfa 2b and ribavirin in the re-treatment of patients with injury caused by hepatitis C virus, 17 patients treated in the hepatology consultation,were selected from Gastroenterology Service of Provincial teaching Hospital Dr Antonio Luaces Iraola, that not respond to a first treatment with interferon as monotherapy; the data were obtained in the form of data collection. Patients with chronic hepatitis C were mostly young and male adults. The most affected population groups were patients with unprotected or sexual risk behaviour, patients with a history of stomatological care, blood transfusion receptors and medical personnel. A combined therapy was applied to them for 52 weeks, 58 percent of the studied patients were negative at the end of the treatment, 94 percent normalized Alanine aminotransferase, a histological improvement regarding the initial biopsy in the majority of cases was observed, the most common adverse reaction was the flu syndrome.

Sustained virological response to treatment of chronic hepatitis C with peginterferon alfa and ribavirin

This study aimed to evaluate the rate of sustained virological response (SVR) and the clinical and treatment characteristics of patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). A retrospective uncontrolled cohort study was conducted among patients who received treatment for CHC between 2005 and 2008 attended at the Center for the Application and Monitoring of Injectable Medications, in Florianopolis, SC, Brazil. The inclusion criteria were: patients over 18 years of age, with a confirmed diagnosis of chronic hepatitis C according to Brazilian guidelines, treated with PEG-IFN alfa-2a or 2b associated with RBV. A total of 188 patients were included in the study: 70% men, 59% genotype 1, 27% coinfected with HIV, 31% with cirrhosis. The SVR rate, calculated by probability theory, was determined as 26% (max=57.4% and min=12.8%) and the intention to treat was 12.8%. Associations between Sustained Virological Response (SVR) and the variables sex (p=0.017), age (p=0.003), genotype (p=0.648) and cirrhosis (p=0.275), were determined in the bivariate analysis and only sex and age were significantly associated with SVR. The SVR rate was considered low, which can be partially explained by patients' unfavorable pretreatment characteristics.

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a taxa de resposta viral sustentada (RVS) e as características clínicas e do tratamento dos pacientes portadores de hepatite C crônica. Realizou-se uma coorte retrospectiva não controlada com recorte temporal dos anos de 2005 a 2008, dos pacientes atendidos no Polo de Aplicação e Monitoramento de Medicamentos Injetáveis, em Florianópolis, SC. Os critérios de inclusão foram: pacientes maiores de 18 anos, com diagnóstico confirmado de hepatite C crônica de acordo com o protocolo brasileiro, tratados com PEG-IFN alfa-2a ou 2b associado a ribavirina. Total de 188 pacientes foi incluído no estudo, 70% homens, 59% genótipo 1, 27% co-infectados com o HIV e 31% apresentando cirrose. A taxa de RVS calculada através da teoria das probabilidades foi de 26% (max=57,4% and min=12,8%) e por intenção de tratamento de 12,8%. Verificou-se a associação da RVS com as variáveis: sexo (p=0,017), idade (p=0,003), genótipo (p=0,648) e presença de cirrose (p=0,275). Somente sexo e idade foram associados significativamente com a RVS. A taxa de RVS foi considerada baixa e, em parte, pode ser explicada pelas características desfavoráveis dos pacientes para a obtenção de RVS.

Lamivudine-interferon alpha 2b sequential therapy versus lamivudine monotherapy in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B patients / 中华传染病杂志

Objective To compare the efficacy and safety of Iamivudine-interferon sequential therapy and lamivudine monotherapy in HBeAg-positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients.MethodsA total of 172 patients with HBeAg-positive CHB were randomized to sequential group (n=83) or lamivudine group (n=89).Sequential group were administrated with lamivudine 100 mg/d and 5 million units interferon alpha 2b subcutaneous injection every other day for 24 weeks were added since week 25 of treatment.Lamivudine group were administrated with lamivudine 100 mg/d for 48 weeks.All subjects were followed up for 24 weeks after drug withdrawal.Measurement data with homogeneity of variance were analyzed by using t test and data with heterogeneity of variance were analyzed by using rank sum test.The comparison of rates was done by chi square test or Fisher exact test.ResultsThe baseline hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA levels of patients in sequential group and lamivudine group were (7.8±1.0) and (7.9±1.1) lg copy/mL,respectively (P＞0.05),and the baseline alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were (210.5 ± 150.1 ) and (211.9 ± 160.9) U/L,respectively (P＞0.05).At the end of treatment,higher ALT levels [(78.4±146.1) vs (36.1±32.4) U/L,P＜0.05)] and HBV DNA levels [(4.5±1.5) vs (3.8±1.3) lg copy/mL,P＜0.05)] levels,lower response rates (65.8％ vs 83.5％,P＜0.05),and similar HBeAg loss rates (31.6％ vs 22.2％,P＞0.05) and HBeAg seroconversion rates (27.6％ vs 16.0％,P＞0.05) were found in sequential group compared with lamivudine group.At the end of follow-up,higher ALT levels [(126.0±143.1) vs (82.7±83.0) U/L,P＜0.05)],similar HBV DNA levels [(5.3±1.5) vs (5.0±1.5) lg copy/mL,P＞0.05)],similar HBeAg loss rates (25.0％ vs 32.3％,P＞0.05) and HBeAg seroconversion rates (25.0 ％ vs 26.2 ％,P＞0.05) were found in sequential group compared with lamivudine group.YMDD motif mutation rate in sequential group was lower than lamivudine group at week 48 of treatment (10.5％ vs 26.9％,P＜0.05).ConclusionsLamivudine-interferon sequential therapy and lamivudine monotherapy are both effective in HBeAg-positive CHB patients,while HBV mutations are reduced in patients with sequential therapy.

Relationship between the serum chemokine IP-10 and RANTES levels and Interferon therapeutic early response in patients with chronic hepatitis B / 中国基层医药

Objective To investigate the relationship between the serum chemokine IP-10 and RANTES levels and Interferon therapeutic early response in patients with chronic hepatitis B(CHB).Methods 50 patients with chronic hepatitis B were chosen into interferon therapy.After 12 weeks,they were devided into three groups:complete response A、partial response B、non response C group.HBV-DNA was detected by PCR;The serum chemokines( IP-10 and RANTES) were measured by Luminex Liquichip technology.Results The base HBV DNA and RANTES levels of three groups weren't significantly different (P ＜0.05) ;The base ALT and IP-10 levels of A group were significantly higher than that in B and C group( P ＜ 0.05).The IP-10、RANTES contents of A group in therapeutic 4th week were significantly lower than that before interferon therapy(P ＜ 0.05 );There were no significant differences in B、C group (P ＞0.05) ;The levels changes of IP-10、RANTES、HBV DNA and ALT in therapeutic 12th week were significantly different between the three groups ( P ＜ 0.05 ),The level of ALT in 50 patients has positive correlation with IP-10 level (P ＜ 0.05) ;The level of HBV DNA in 50 patients had positive correlation with RANTES level( P ＜ 0.05 ) ;The base level of IP-10 had positive correlation with the change of HBV-DNA contents in therapeutic 12th week( P ＜0.05 ) ;The change of ALT level in reponse patients in therapeutic 12th week had positive correlation with the change of IP-10 、RANTES levels( P ＜ 0.05 ).Conclusion The decrease of IP-10,RANTES level in CHB patients received 12weeks interferon-α therapy could lead to reduce liver inflammation;The base IP-10 level probably was relevant to the early response in CHB patients received interferon-α therapy.

Immune function analysis after interferon treatment in post-surgery patients with localized clear cell renal cell carcinoma / 第二军医大学学报

Objective To evaluate the influence of interferon adjuvant therapy on immune parameters in postoperative patients with localized clear cell renal cell carcinoma (LCCRCC) and explore the related clinical significance. Methods Thirty-five patients with LCCRCC were treated with interferon α-2b hypodermic injection after surgery (6 MIU/time, three times per week for three months). Immune parameters, including CD4+,CD8+,CD4+/CD8+,CD16+56+,CD19+, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-8, and TNF-α, were determined before and at the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 8th, and 16th week after therapy. And the results were compared before and after therapy. ResultsThree months after therapy, the levels of CD4+, CD8+ and CD4+/CD8+ were not significantly different from those before therapy. The of CD16+56+ was increased significantly during the first two weeks' of treatment (P<0.05) and was significantly declined at the end of therapy (P<0.01). Compared with that before therapy, CD19+ levels were decreased in the 1st, 2nd and 4th week after treatment (all P<0.01), and was significantly increased at the 16th week (P<0.01). The level of IL-8 was significantly decreased at the 4th week after therapy (P<0.05) and TNF-α level was increased at the 8th week after therapy (P<0.01); the levels of other humoral immune parameters were not significantly different from those before therapy. Conclusion Treatment with interferon α-2b hypodermic injection (6 MIU/time, three times/week for three months) has a limited effect on promoting the immunity of patients with LCCRCC, and its influence on the long-term survival patients also needs further study.

Seguridad de la terapia de interferón alfa 2b recombinante más ribavirina en la hepatitis crónica C / Safety of recombinant interferon alpha 2b plus ribavirin in chronic hepatitis C

La hepatitis crónica C ha adquirido rango de pandemia. El virus de la hepatitis C se ha convertido en la causa principal de hepatitis crónica, cirrosis hepática, hepatocarcinoma, y trasplante de hígado a nivel mundial. OBJETIVO: identificar los efectos adversos asociados a la terapia combinada interferón alfa 2b recombinante más ribavirina durante la evolución del tratamiento y hasta 8 semanas después de finalizado, así como los principales efectos asociados a salidas temporales o definitivas de esta terapia. MÉTODOS: estudio de farmacovigilancia cuya serie estuvo conformada por 122 pacientes con hepatitis crónica C atendidos en el Instituto de Gastroenterología desde mayo de 2001 hasta mayo de 2006. Se utilizó interferón alfa 2b recombinante (3 millones de unidades 3 veces por semana) más ribavirina (1 000 o 1 200 mg diarios en dependencia del peso corporal) durante 48 semanas. RESULTADOS: el 88,5 por ciento del total de casos presentó efectos adversos; de ellos el 79,5 por ciento correspondió al síndrome seudogripal, seguido de manifestaciones hematológicas, neuropsiquiátricas, gastrointestinales, entre otras menos frecuentes. El 6,6 por ciento de la serie presentó salidas temporales del tratamiento por efecto adverso distinto de la anemia y 4 pacientes, salidas definitivas del estudio, tres por anemia hemolítica severa y uno con hipertiroidismo no controlable. CONCLUSIONES: la terapia combinada interferón alfa 2b recombinante más ribavirina resulta segura, donde el mayor número de casos presentó síndrome seudogripal como efecto adverso más frecuente. Las manifestaciones hematológicas asociadas a las salidas definitivas del estudio permitieron recomendar seguimiento estricto de la hemoglobina y profundizar en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de los principales efectos adversos presentes en otros sistemas y asociados a esta terapia

Chronic hepatitis C has reached the category of pandemic. The hepatitis C virus is the main cause of chronic hepatitis, hepatic cirrhosis, hepatocarcinoma and liver transplantation worldwide. OBJECTIVE: to identify the side effects of a combined therapy of recombinant interpheron alpha 2b plus ribavirin during the treatment and up to 8 weeks afterwards, as well as the main effects related to temporary or definitive withdrawal. METHODS: a pharmacological surveillance study was performed in which 122 patients with chronic hepatitis C, who had been seen at the Institute of Gastroenterology from May 2001 to May 2006, were included. Recombinant interferon alpha 2b (3 million units administered 3 times a week) plus ribavirin (1 000 or 1 200 mg daily depending on the body weight) was the therapy used for 48 weeks. RESULTS: of the total number of cases, 88,5 percent had side effects; 79,5 percent of which corresponded to pseudocold syndrome followed by hematological, neuropsychiatric and gastrointestinal manifestations, and other less frequent ailments. In the studied group, 6,6 percent had to interrupt their treatment temporarily due to some side effect different from anemia whereas 4 patients gave up the study, three affected by severe hemolytic anemia and one with uncontrollable hyperthyroidism. CONCLUSIONS: the combined therapy of recombinant interferon alpha 2b plus ribavirin proved to be safe; the most frequent side effect was pseudocold syndrome in the majority of cases. The hematological manifestations that made the patients to give up the study led to recommend a strict follow-up of hemoglobin levels and thorough diagnosis and treatment of the main side effects found in other systems and associated to this combined therapy

Wide surgical excision combined with low-dose adjuvant interferon-alpha 2b for the treatment of invasive cutaneous malignant melanoma: 32 case reports / 中华皮肤科杂志

Objective To retrospectively analyze the therapeutic effect of wide surgical excision combined with low-dose adjuvant interferon-alpha 2b on cutaneous malignant melanoma.Methods A total of 32 patients with cutaneous malignant melanoma received wide surgical excision after preoperative examination and staging.The excisions were performed with a margin measuring 1-2 cm from the visible lesions or biopsy scars.Surgical modalities included direct suture after excision(4 patients),dactylolysis or toe amputation(6 patients),free skin grafting(15 patients),random skin flap transfer(3 patients)and pedicle skin flap transfer(4 patients).Lymph nodes were selectively dissected in 9 patients with regional transfer of lymph nodes,and inguinal lymph nodes were cleared away in 2 patients.One week after the operation,patients received adjuvant therapy with subcutaneous injection of interferon-alpha 2b(3 million IU,thrice per week)for one to three years.Results Preoperative tumor staging revealed 21 cases of cutaneous malignant melanoma at stage Ⅱ,and 11 cases at stage Ⅲ.The excisions healed by the first stage in all the patients.Up to June 2011,2 patients had been lost to follow up,5 patients with stage Ⅲ melanoma had died.Survival was observed in all of the 4 patients receiving 1-year follow up,12 of 13 patients receiving 1-3 year follow up,5 of 7 patients receiving 3-5 year follow up,and 4 of 6 receiving 5-year follow up.Of the 25 surviving patients,regional lymph node metastasis was observed in 8 patients,which developed within 2 years after the operation in 2 patients.The adjuvant therapy with interferon-alpha 2b lasted 3 years in 8 patients,and more than 1 year in 11 patients.Side effects were mild.Conclusion Wide surgical excision plus low-dose interferon-alpha 2b is effective for the treatment of stage Ⅱ and Ⅲ cutaneous malignant melanoma with lower local recurrence and higher survival rate.

Therapeutic effect and cost of two-year therapy with interferon compared to adefovir in patients with chronic hepatitis B: a comparative study / 中华传染病杂志

Objective To compare the efficacy, tolerance and cost of interferon (IFN) α-2b and adefovir (ADV) in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) for two years. Methods The treatmentnaive outpatients with CHB were treated with IFN α-2b or ADV according to intention to treat.Among 77 patients, 34 were treated with recombinant IFN α-2b 5 MU once every other day subcutaneously (IFN group), 43 were treated with ADV 10 mg/day orally (ADV group). The medications were stopped or the regimens were changed due to intolerant adverse reactions or without effects according to intention to treat. The patients were followed up for 24 months. The therapeutic effects, adverse reactions, compliance and cost of two initial treatments were compared. The data were analyzed by Fisher exact probability test. Results The complete virological response (HBV DNA＜500 copy/mL) rates after 12 months of therapy in IFN group and ADV group were 41.2% (14/34)and 67. 4 % (29/43), respectively, while the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) normalization rates were41.2% (14/34) and 93. 0% (40/43), respectively. The rates in ADV group were both significantly greater than those in IFN group (both P＜0.01). There were no statistically significant differences of HBeAg negative rate and HBeAg seroconversion rate between the two groups. In IFN group, the expulsion rate was 23. 5% (8/34), the therapy was discontinued in 8. 8% (3/34) of patients due to adverse reactions and the medication was changed in 47.1% (16/34) of patients. In ADV group, there were no adverse reactions associated with medication during 2-year therapy and patients were well tolerant, the expulsion rate was 7.0% (3/43) and the regimen in 9.3% (4/43) of patients was changed (P＜0.01). The comparison of therapeutic cost between the two groups showed that the cost of anti-viral therapy, management with adverse reactions and laboratory examinations in IFN group were all higher than those in ADV group. The average cost per person of two years was increased with RMB 4855 yuan in IFN group. Conclusion In HBeAg-positive CHB patients, ADV is cost-effective and suitable choice for initial antiviral treatment.

Occurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis and autoimmune thyroiditis in a patient treated with pegylated interferon-alpha 2b and ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C / 대한간학회지

Combined pegylated interferon and ribavirin therapy for chronic hepatitis C infection cause a wide range of side effects, including flu-like syndrome, hematological abnormalities, cardiovascular symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms, pulmonary dysfunction, depression, and retinopathy. Interferon-alpha has been shown to be related to the development of various autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune thyroid disease, and type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM). Type 1 DM and thyroid disease respectively develop in 0.08~2.61% and 10~15% of patients treated with combined interferon-alpha and ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C. The coexistence of type 1 DM and autoimmune thyroiditis was rarely reported. We report a case of a 33-year-old female patient with chronic hepatitis C who simultaneously developed diabetic ketoacidosis and autoimmune thyroiditis after treatment with pegylated interferon-alpha 2b and ribavirin.