BMC Gastroenterology (Jan 2012)

Long-term effects of treatment and response in patients with chronic hepatitis C on quality of life. An international, multicenter, randomized, controlled study

  • Bezemer Geert,
  • Van Gool Arthur R,
  • Verheij-Hart Elke,
  • Hansen Bettina E,
  • Lurie Yoav,
  • Esteban Juan I,
  • Lagging Martin,
  • Negro Francesco,
  • Zeuzem Stefan,
  • Ferrari Carlo,
  • Pawlotsky Jean-Michel,
  • Neumann Avidan U,
  • Schalm Solko W,
  • de Knegt Robert J

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-230X-12-11
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 12, no. 1
p. 11

Abstract

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Abstract Background Hepatitis C decreases health related quality of life (HRQL) which is further diminished by antiviral therapy. HRQL improves after successful treatment. This trial explores the course of and factors associated with HRQL in patients given individualized or standard treatment based on early treatment response (Ditto-study). Methods The Short Form (SF)-36 Health Survey was administered at baseline (n = 192) and 24 weeks after the end of therapy (n = 128). Results At baseline HRQL was influenced by age, participating center, severity of liver disease and income. Exploring the course of HRQL (scores at follow up minus baseline), only the dimension general health increased. In this dimension patients with a relapse or sustained response differed from non-responders. Men and women differed in the dimension bodily pain. Treatment schedule did not influence the course of HRQL. Conclusions Main determinants of HRQL were severity of liver disease, age, gender, participating center and response to treatment. Our results do not exclude a more profound negative impact of individualized treatment compared to standard, possibly caused by higher doses and extended treatment duration in the individualized group. Antiviral therapy might have a more intense and more prolonged negative impact on females.

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