Hepatitis C virus-positive patients on the waiting list for transplantation

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a common problem in renal transplant patients, associated with an increase in morbidity and mortality. HCV infection is associated with a lower graft and patient survival. The problem of HCV infection is the increase in viral load and liver transaminases after renal transplantation secondary to immunosuppressive therapy. After renal transplantation, interferon therapy is not recommended because of the risk for acute rejection and acute nephritis. In this context, it is absolutely necessary to consider the evaluation and treatment of HCV infection during the dialysis period. Several studies have defined the benefits of interferon therapy in dialysis patients, with rates of maintenance response significantly higher than in the general population. The difference in the pharmacokinetic profile of interferon in dialysis patients could justify its higher efficacy.