[Auto-immune serological disorders in chronic viral C hepatitis: Prevalence and clinical significance]

ABSTRACT

Hepatitis C viral [HCV] infection has been shown to lead to auto-immune phenomena. We review the prevalence of serological auto-immune disorders associated to HCV infection and to clarify their clinical significance. Literature review. The serological immune response to HCV infection may include the development of cryoglobulinemia, rheumatoid factor, anticardiolipin, antinuclear, anti-liver-kidney-microsome 1 and anti-smooth muscle antibodies. Serological auto-immune manifestations were explained by the lymphotropism of HCV and the polyclonal activation of B cells. Interferon-based treatment of HCV infection may precipitate or exacerbate the associated auto-immune disease. In patients with serological auto-immune disorders associated with HCV infection, a very careful analysis of clinical and biological features is needed. Application of classification criteria of systemic auto-immune diseases and testing more specific antibodies can resolve this point