Department of Physiology, Army Medical College, Rawalpindi

Abstract

Background: To determine the frequency and severity of depression in patients on Interferon therapy for chronic hepatitis C Methods: Total 97 diagnosed patients of chronic hepatitis C were enrolled. They were on IFN therapy, either conventional or Peg- IFN for at least last three months . Proforma comprising of Zung Self Rating Depression Scale was administered to assess the frequency and severity of depression. Results: Out of 97 patients, 46% were male and 54% were female. Conventional interferon was given to 79% patients whereas 21% patients received Peg IFN. Depression was found in 58% patients. Conclusion: Interferon treatment causes depression in a considerable numbers of patients.

Keywords

• Depression
• interferon
• hepatitis C