만성 간염환자에서의 페기레이티드 인터페론 망막증

Pegylated Interferon Associated Retinopathy in Chronic Hepatitis Patients

Purpose: To investigate clinical features of pegylated interferon‐associated retinopathy in chronic hepatitis patients. Methods: The present study was a consecutive case series of 46 patients who were treated with pegylated interferon for chronic hepatitis C or B from October 2007 to September 2008 in our hospital. The patients had a regular ophthalmologic examination every 3 weeks for 6 months after treatment. Results: Out of 46 patients, 10 patients (21.73%) developed retinal abnormality. Pegylated interferon‐associated retinopathy occurred at 7.25±10.28 weeks after the treatment with cotton‐wool spots and retinal hemorrhage. All cases except one mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy case presenting broad perimacular non‐perfusion recovered without cessation of the treatment. Conclusions: Pegylated interferon‐associated retinopathy in chronic hepatitis patients was reversible and had a recovery without visual complication. However, a single case did present with irreversible visual impairment. Pegylated interferon‐associated retinopathy is usually asymptomatic and clinicians should observe patients closely for 3 months after treatment.