Peginterferon-alpha 2a related peripheral neuropathy: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

We report the case of a 46-year-old female with chronic hepatitis C virus infection who developed paresthesia and weakness of face and upper and lower extremities nine months after administration of peginterferon-alpha 2a. Considering her clinical evolution, neurological examination and nerve conduction studies, she was diagnosed with multifocal motor neuropathy related to peginterferon-alpha treatment. The patient recovered after use of intravenous immunoglobulins. From our knowledge there is no data in the literature about multifocal motor neuropathy related to peginterferon-alpha treatment. Doctors should be aware of this rare association, which requires immediate drug discontinuation and early management.

Keywords

• peginterferon alpha
• multifocal motor neuropathy
• peripheral neuropathy
• hepatitis c