Direct-acting Antivirals Inducing HCV-RNA Sustained Suppression Improve Xerophthalmia in HCV-infected Patients

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection represents a global problem, and it is related to both hepatic and extra-hepatic manifestations (e.g., xerophthalmia). New direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), IFN-free treatments, are commonly used to manage HCV infection. However, the impact of new DAAs on dry eyes (xerophthalmia) is lacking. In this study, we evaluated its incidence in HCV patients and the effect of DAAs on this manifestation.

Methods: We performed an observational open-label non-randomized study in HCV patients from 01 April 2018 to 01 June 2020.

Results: Patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria underwent clinical and laboratory evaluation, Schirmer's test, and Break-up time test. Enrolled patients were divided in two groups: Group 1: HCV patients with xerophthalmia: 24 patients (16 male and 8 female), HCV-RNA 2,685,813 ± 1,145,698; Group 2: HCV patients without xerophthalmia: 35 patients (19 male and 16 female), HCV-RNA 2,614,757 ± 2,820,433. The follow-ups (3 and 6 months after the enrollment) documented an improvement in both eyes' manifestations and HCV-infection (HCV-RNA undetected).

Conclusion: In conclusion, in this study, we reported that xerophthalmia could appear in HCV patients, and DAAs treatment reduces this manifestation without the development of adverse drug reactions.

Keywords: DAAs treatment; HCV-infection; direct antiviral agents; dry-eye; schirmer's test; xerophthalmia.