Expectations of Treatment of Hepatitis C in Children

Abstract

Background: HCV infection in children differs from infection in adult through transmission paths, spontaneous viral clearance rate, and fibrosis progression duration of chronic infection. It is estimated that the rate of children with chronic hepatitis C will develop cirrhosis is less than 2%, however there are reports of children requiring liver transplantation. Objective: Was to present a general overview of the current treatments for HCV infection in children. Material and method: Databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE and Scopus were used as information sources to identify and analyzed the current information about the treatment for HCV infection in children. Results: In children the most commonly used drugs are pegylated alpha interferon in combination with ribavirin, both drugs are given in combination therapy in children over 3 years of age with detectable HCV RNA levels. The side effects reported are similar like to adults, including leukopenia, anemia, weight loss (determined by anorexia, nausea, and abdominal pain), changes in behavior, depression, suicidal ideation, thyroid disorders, and transient slowing of the growth rate. Recently, it has been approved that the other drugs with direct antiviral activity (DAAs), the protease inhibitors NS3/4, Boceprevir and Telaprevir were introduced into clinical practice in adults, only Boceprevir was tested and not approved for use in children, (Clinical Trials gob No P07614), adverse effects were reported in 37.5% of participants and included nausea, fatigue, malaise, increased systolic pressure, increased liver enzymes.