Pilot study of interferon gamma for chronic hepatitis C

Background/Aims Currently, there are no effective therapies available for patients with chronic hepatitis C who have failed to respond to optimal interferon alfa-based regimens. The aims of this pilot study were to assess the antiviral activity and safety of interferon gamma in chronic hepatitis C. Methods Patients with chronic hepatitis C, genotype 1, who had not responded to or who had relapsed after therapy with interferon alfa and ribavirin were enrolled in a trial of interferon gamma 1b given in doses of 100, 200 or 400 μg subcutaneously three times weekly for 4 weeks. Frequent blood samples were obtained for HCV RNA levels. Results Fourteen patients were enrolled. Geometric mean HCV RNA levels remained unchanged. Serum aminotransferase levels also did not change, while there were significant decreases in neutrophil counts (−41% from baseline) and hematocrit (−5%). Low grade fever and malaise were common with the first injection of interferon gamma, but no serious side effects were encountered. Conclusions Although relatively well tolerated, interferon gamma in doses of 100–400 μg thrice weekly had no effect on HCV RNA levels in patients with chronic hepatitis C who had failed to achieve a sustained response to interferon alfa-based therapies.